Matt Lauer and Meredith Viera (courtesy of Creative Commons)

The news comes just days after reports surfaced claiming host Meredith Viera will depart from the show as early as September 2011. Sources say her reasons for leaving are likely due to the early morning hours and her husband, who is battling multiple sclerosis.

The talk of Viera’s replacement has already begun. Some possibilities include NBC’s Ann Curry, Erin Burnett, Natalie Morales and Tamron Hall. Other surprising names include Elisabeth Hasselbeck and NeNe Leakes. There is also the possibility of Katie Couric returning to her former home after sources revealed she will not be continuing as host for the “CBS Evening News.”

In regards to Lauer, it is too early to tell who could replace the host. NBC’s David Gregory and Carl Quintanilla have filled in for him in the past.

The next few months should be interesting to watch. If both hosts will be leaving in the near future, NBC has much to do to keep their news program at number one in the ratings.

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