Hoda Kotb’s Emotional Goodbye to Today Show
Hoda Kotb, a beloved host on NBC’s “Today Show,” has officially announced her departure from the morning program. The announcement, made during the show on September 26, revealed her intentions to leave early next year while remaining within the NBC family.
During an emotional segment, Kotb shared that her 60th birthday in August served as a catalyst for her decision, stating, ‘I realized that it was time for me to turn the page at 60 and try something new.’ She described her birthday celebration as a moment of reflection, realizing the joys and possibilities ahead.
Kotb has co-anchored the “Today Show” with Savannah Guthrie since early 2018 and made history as part of its first all-female anchor team. Guthrie, in an emotional response, expressed the team’s deep affection for Kotb, saying, ‘We don’t want to imagine this place without you.’
In her heartfelt letter addressed to the “Today” team, Kotb emphasized the need to spend more time with her daughters, Haley and Hope, stating, ‘They deserve a bigger piece of my time pie.’ This personal motivation often echoed throughout her announcement, highlighting her desire to prioritize family as new adventures await.
Reflecting on her nearly three-decade journey with NBC News, including two decades with the “Today Show,” Kotb recognized the professional growth she experienced and the friendships she built along the way. ‘My time here has been the longest professional love affair of my life,’ she remarked before concluding that she is both ready and excited for this next chapter.
Kotb is set to remain with the “Today Show” until January 1, 2025, as she transitions to another role within NBC. Details regarding her new position are yet to be revealed, but she assured her colleagues that they would remain her family, stating, ‘I’ll be around. How could I not? Family is family and you all will always be a part of mine.’
As fans and colleagues process this significant change, Kotb leaves behind a legacy of warmth, inspiration, and groundbreaking achievements within the broadcasting industry.
