Hoda Kotb says she wants Kelly Rowland to 'come back' after singer's 'Today' show departure
It may not be a mea culpa, but Hoda Kotb is extending an olive branch to Kelly Rowland.
The "Today" show host praised Rowland Tuesday after the singer pulled out of guest-hosting "Today with Hoda & Jenna" due to an alleged behind-the-scenes dispute last week.
"I just want to say this: I have great love and admiration for Kelly Rowland. I adore her," Kotb said alongside co-host Jenna Bush Hager. "And I want her to come back on our show, and I want her to host again." Hager quickly added, "She is welcome any time."
Rowland appeared on the morning talk show Thursday to discuss her Netflix thriller "Mea Culpa" with host Savannah Guthrie. The Destiny's Child alum was scheduled to return to the show later that morning and guest co-host "Today with Hoda & Jenna."
Instead, singer Rita Ora was called to fill in for Rowland, who has yet to comment on her departure from the talk show. Recent reports revealed that Rowland allegedly left "Today" because she and her team were not satisfied with the quality of Rowland's dressing room, according to People magazine and Page Six.
"She can share my dressing room. We'll be in it together," Kotb said Tuesday. "But anyway, I just wanted to say that we love her. We've loved her on this show for many, many, many years."
USA TODAY has reached out to representatives for Rowland for comment.
Days following the alleged dispute, Rowland appeared on the "Sherri" talk show Monday to continue promoting "Mea Culpa." During the interview, Rowland thanked host Sherri Shepherd for "being light, positive energy in this space."
"We needed you," Rowland told Shepherd. "And I thank you so much for your light."
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