TVSquad

Probably the least-surprising news to come out of yesterday's NBC sessions was that the network is going to expand Today to a fourth hour. NBC News president Steve Capus and Today executive producer Jim Bell paneled with Matt Lauer, Meredith Vieira, Al Roker, and Ann Curry to discuss the move as well as the show's year of transition.

Of course, the show's signature easy-going goofiness was in evidence. Matt Lauer: "I see you all typing away on your laptops, and I'm not going to tell you what your headline should be. But the headline we think should be 'Today show crew boringly happy.'" Meredith joked about kissing a monkey on the show earlier that morning: "I can't get over the fact I kissed a monkey this morning. I initiated it, and quite frankly, I can't stop thinking about it."

It's only a rumor at this point, but according to Variety.com (registration required to read the full article), NBC is thinking of adding a fourth hour to the Today show. Yes, that's right, kids: more make-up tips, more cooking segments, and even more of our jolly friend Al Roker.

There are two factors that might make this a reality: network affiliates are seeking cheaper 10 AM options -- syndicated programming usually airs there -- and the show is renovating and expanding their studios to accommodate a permanent kitchen, among other things. The show is also taking expanded dressing room and makeup room space. The new studio will be ready in time for Meredith Vieira's arrival in September.

All of this makes them ready to house more on-air talent if the need to expand arises. The third hour has already been shown to be a proving ground for new anchors like Natalie Morales and María Celeste Arrarás, and the fourth hour will be no different. If they do decide to go to a fourth hour, I have three words for them: More Jean Chatzky.