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NEW YORK CITY — After weeks of cryptic posts and quiet headlines, Claire Benson, the charismatic Today show lifestyle correspondent, has finally confirmed what fans have long suspected: she was expecting — and now, the secret is out.

In a stunning Instagram video that dropped Monday morning, Benson revealed that not only is she pregnant, but she’s already welcomed a healthy baby girl — and the gender reveal moment had fans (and even former co-hosts) wiping away tears.

“Keeping this a secret wasn’t easy,” she captioned the post. “But we wanted to keep this sacred chapter just ours for a little while. Now, I’m ready to share our joy with the world.”

Whispers, Absence, and Sudden Silence

Benson, 34, stepped away from her full-time Today show role in March 2025, citing “personal matters and a need to realign with family.” Almost immediately, the internet was flooded with questions: Was she taking a break? Launching a new show? Or was she—like many suspected—pregnant?

The rumors picked up steam after she was spotted in late April wearing oversized coats and avoiding red-carpet events. Her absence from Today’s 70th anniversary special further fueled speculation.

The Big Reveal: A Backyard Moment Full of Magic

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In the now-viral video (6.4M views and counting), Benson and her partner — musician Aiden Cross — are seen standing in a lush backyard surrounded by friends and family. As soft music plays, a white box opens and pink balloons float into the air.

Cheers erupt.

“It’s a GIRL!!!” Claire shouts, overcome with emotion as Aiden lifts her into the air. “She’s here. She’s healthy. And she’s everything we prayed for.”

A brief second clip shows the couple holding their newborn, whose name they revealed as Harper Isla Cross.

Reactions Pour In: ‘So Worth the Wait’

The comments section was immediately flooded with support from fans and fellow Today colleagues.

Savannah Guthrie commented: “So many happy tears! Welcome to the world, little Harper 💗”
Hoda Kotb added: “Claire! You beautiful secret-keeper! So proud of you. She’s perfect.”
Al Roker wrote simply: “Pure sunshine. That’s what you just gave us.”

Why the Secrecy?

In a follow-up Q&A posted to her Instagram Stories, Benson shared that she had suffered two miscarriages in the past and felt it important to “hold this pregnancy gently and quietly.”

“We wanted to celebrate without fear. To breathe. To prepare. And to fully soak in the miracle before the noise of the world could rush in.”

She also revealed that she gave birth three weeks ago but had waited until now to share publicly “so I could recover, bond, and step into motherhood fully.”

Will She Return to Today?

NBC insiders say the door is “wide open” for Benson’s return — but for now, she’s embracing a quieter schedule focused on motherhood and a potential book project.

“She’s a core part of the Today family, and we support her in every season,” a spokesperson told The American Herald. “She’ll always have a home here.”

Claire’s Message to Fans

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In a closing note at the end of her gender reveal video, Claire included a heartfelt message:

“To everyone who has followed me, cheered me on, and waited patiently… thank you. This has been the most beautiful plot twist of my life. Our hearts are full.”

Welcome to the world, Harper. Your story has already inspired millions.