Gifford in the running for 'Today' gig

NEW YORK, March 7 (UPI) -- TV personality Kathie Lee Gifford may return to U.S. morning television after an eight-year absence, a published report said Friday.

Gifford spent 15 years as the co-host of morning chat shows with Regis Philbin but left in 2000 to spend more time with her family. She has made occasional appearances on morning shows but hasn't worked steadily in the medium since she left "Live with Regis and Kathie Lee."

The Hollywood Reporter said Gifford is one of several people NBC News is talking to about taking on the role as co-host in the fourth hour of the "Today" program.

"I think she's a great talent," "Today" Executive Producer Jim Bell told the trade paper.

Bell emphasized, however, that no decision regarding the job had been made.