NBC Preps for Meredith Vieira 'Today' Departure

Rumors are swirling at NBC that "Today" co-anchor Meredith Vieira could be leaving the popular morning show where she has been an anchor since 2006.

According to sources at "Today," Vieira is tired of the grueling work hours associated with the show and would like to spend more time with her ailing husband, Richard Cohen, who has long suffered from multiple sclerosis.

Although Vieira can still decide to renew her contract for another year, executives at NBC are already reportedly considering options for her replacement.

Potential heirs for Vieira’s spot include "Today" anchors Ann Curry and Natalie Morales as well as Washington Correspondent Savannah Guthrie and CNBC's Erin Burnett.

As if she was preparing viewers for her eventual departure, Vieira made some foreboding comments in an interview with Ladies Home Journal in October. Vieira said "I'll know when it's time to go, and I'm not afraid. If I were to leave 'Today' at the end of next year it's because it's time for me. I would look forward to not working, to traveling with Richard and carving out time for us."

When asked for a comment on Vieira, producers for "Today" said, "The 'Today' show anchors are currently under contract and firmly in place."