Fans have long speculated about a potential romance between Hoda Kotb and Yellowstone star Kevin Costner, and recent events have only fueled the rumors. 

Ever since Costner last appeared on Today with Hoda & Jenna in 2024, viewers have been convinced that the two share undeniable chemistry. 

Even Kotb’s former co-host, Jenna Bush Hager, has commented on their connection—leaving many wondering if something more is happening behind the scenes.

Now, Kotb herself is addressing the speculation, and her responses aren’t doing much to shut down the rumors.

Kotb’s Playful Response to the Rumors

In a recent interview, Kotb was asked about the ongoing fan theories linking her to Costner. Her response only added more intrigue.

“Isn’t it sort of weird that he always ends up where I am?” Kotb teased. “I mean, I’m just living my life, and there he is. It just keeps happening.”

She then added a cryptic remark: “When is it not a coincidence anymore? That’s what I was wondering.”

Her playful response had fans buzzing, as it seemed to suggest there might be more to their interactions than mere chance.

Flirty Exchange on Watch What Happens Live

Kotb first addressed the speculation publicly during a July 2024 appearance on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen. During the show, a fan called in to ask how she felt about people “shipping” her with Costner after his Today appearance. The fan also wanted to know whether the two had stayed in touch.

Appearing caught off guard by the question, Kotb responded with a coy smile. “I never heard that, not one time,” she said, before playfully adding, “Well, if the viewers want it…”

Her lighthearted answer immediately sparked excitement among fans, as many took it as a sign that she wasn’t opposed to the idea.

Jenna Bush Hager’s Efforts to Set Them Up

Bush Hager, who had witnessed Kotb and Costner’s chemistry firsthand, was quick to jump in and encourage the possibility of a romance. Determined to play matchmaker, she vowed to help set up a date between the two.

During Today, Bush Hager and the production team even prepared a romantic montage highlighting moments from Costner’s guest appearance. The clip featured the actor and Kotb exchanging smiles and laughter, looking completely at ease with one another.

Though Kotb initially denied flirting with Costner, the footage seemed to suggest otherwise. Bush Hager, never one to back down from a fun challenge, continued to fuel the speculation, urging Kotb to embrace the idea of a potential romance.

Spotted Together at the Super Bowl

If their on-air interactions weren’t enough to get fans talking, Kotb and Costner were later spotted together at the Super Bowl in New Orleans following Kotb’s retirement from NBC. The sighting sent social media into a frenzy, with viewers excitedly pointing out that their paths had crossed yet again.

When Kotb posted a photo from the event, Today stars Bush Hager and Savannah Guthrie wasted no time chiming in. Guthrie cheekily commented, “New couple alert cc @jennabushager,” while Bush Hager responded enthusiastically, writing, “We have been waiting for this moment.”

Their comments only added fuel to the fire, leaving fans to wonder if something romantic was indeed brewing between the two.

Could There Be More to the Story?

While neither Kotb nor Costner has confirmed anything beyond a friendly connection, their continued encounters have led many to believe that something special might be developing.

Kotb, a single mother of two, has been open about her desire to focus on family and personal happiness following her departure from Today. Costner, who has been navigating personal changes of his own, has also remained private about his dating life.

With fans rooting for them and colleagues playfully pushing the idea forward, only time will tell if this Hollywood-meets-journalism love story will become reality. Until then, viewers will be watching closely for the next time Kotb and Costner “coincidentally” cross paths again.

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