The Real Reason Hoda Kotb Will Always Be A Fan Of Blake Shelton

Blake Shelton made his name as a country star, perhaps best known for hits like "Austin," "The Baby." and "All Over Me" (via Biography). Shelton had multiple albums reach gold status, and he was eventually recognized by his peers, winning an Academy of Country Music award, a CMT Music award, and more.

Shelton later gained new career traction when he signed on to be a coach on the popular reality singing series "The Voice." It was through the show that Shelton also met his now-wife, fellow judge Gwen Stefani (via Page Six). After beginning to date in 2015, the pair finally wed on Shelton's Oklahoma ranch in July 2021. Shelton was previously married to country singer Miranda Lambert, and Stefani to rock star Gavin Rossdale.

Out of Shelton's second career not only did Shelton gain new fans and meet his second wife, but Shelton was also bestowed with People's biggest honor: Sexiest Man Alive (via People). Shelton snagged the title in 2017 — and while there were some who didn't agree with People's choice — there is at least one person who heartedly agrees (besides Stefani), and it's "Today Show" host Hoda Kotb (via Fox News, Today).

Even though Hoda Kotb is herself a celebrity, that doesn't mean she's immune to celebrity crushes. And her biggest of all? Blake Shelton. In 2013, Kotb and Kathie Lee Gifford appeared on "The Tonight Show" with Jay Leno, where Kotb fessed up about her feelings for Shelton (via Today). "This is a real authentic crush," Kotb said. She even was incensed that "The Voice" coach Adam Levine beat out Shelton for People's Sexiest Man that year (little did she know the title would someday be all Shelton's).

Over the years, Kotb got the opportunity to know her crush better, particularly when he guest-hosted "Today" in 2018 to get ready for his CMT Must Awards hosting duties (via Inquisitr). Even though Kotb and Shelton are both in relationships, they still enjoyed goofing off together onscreen, with Shelton telling Kotb, "I love you," with Kotb replying "This is the best day ... ever."

Kotb clearly has a sense of humor about the whole thing: She even has a doormat that alludes to her crush on Shelton (via Closer Weekly). It reads: "If you're a babysitter, bottle of wine, or Blake Shelton we're home!"

Kotb even wanted to name her dog after Shelton; although some told her this was "stalkerish," Shelton gave Kotb her approval, and today the pup is known as "Charlie Blake." So in a way, Kotb always has Shelton with her (via Today).