Hoda Kotb’s Tearful Announcement

In an emotional and surprising announcement on September 26, 2024, Hoda Kotb shared that she will leave NBC’s Today after 17 years. The news was unexpected for many of her colleagues, who learned about her decision simultaneously as the public. Kotb has long been a beloved figure on the show, co-hosting with Savannah Guthrie and Jenna Bush Hager, and her departure has left many fans and co-workers shocked and emotional.

Kotb cited her family, particularly her two young daughters, Haley Joy and Hope Catherine, as the main reason behind her decision. She explained that she wants to spend more time with them, reflecting on how fleeting time can be. In a letter to the Today team, she expressed her deep love and appreciation for her colleagues, acknowledging the difficulty of her decision, but ultimately emphasizing that her family needs her more at this point in her life​(

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Hoda Kotb

A Career Filled with Milestones

Hoda Kotb’s career on Today has been nothing short of remarkable. She joined the morning show in 2007 and was later promoted to co-anchor in 2018, following Matt Lauer’s exit. Kotb made history alongside Savannah Guthrie, becoming part of the first all-female anchor team for the show. Over the years, her warm and approachable on-screen presence, along with her deep journalistic expertise, earned her a dedicated following​(

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During her tenure, Kotb covered significant news stories, conducted exclusive interviews, and built lasting friendships with her co-hosts. Her chemistry with Jenna Bush Hager, with whom she co-hosted Today with Hoda & Jenna, was especially cherished by fans. The duo’s lighthearted and genuine dynamic brought a fresh perspective to morning television.

Hoda Kotb The Decision to Leave

Hoda Kotb’s decision to leave Today was deeply personal. In her letter, she admitted to feeling conflicted about stepping away but acknowledged that her new priorities lie at home. “They say two things can be true at once,” she wrote, reflecting on how torn she felt about leaving the show she loves, but also recognizing the importance of dedicating more time to her daughters and her mother​(

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Her departure is expected to happen in early 2025, allowing for a transition period. Kotb has reassured fans and her colleagues that she won’t be completely disappearing from the screen, as she plans to stay involved with NBC in some capacity​(

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Hoda Kotb Support from Colleagues

The Today Show family has expressed nothing but support and love for Kotb during this transition. Savannah Guthrie and Jenna Bush Hager, her close friends and co-hosts, tearfully acknowledged how much Kotb means to them, both personally and professionally. The staff of the show, although surprised, have been understanding of her decision, focusing on celebrating her incredible contribution to the show and the lasting legacy she leaves behind​(

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A New Chapter for Kotb

As Hoda Kotb moves into this new phase of her life, she’s focusing on the things that matter most: her daughters and her personal life. Recently, she and her family moved from the city to the suburbs, a move she made to give her girls a more grounded childhood experience. Kotb wants her daughters to enjoy the simple pleasures of life, such as playing outside and growing up in a tight-knit community​(

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Fans and colleagues alike will no doubt miss Kotb’s infectious energy and warm presence on Today, but they are excited to see what this new chapter holds for her.

Hoda Kotb’s departure from Today marks the end of an era, but her decision to prioritize family highlights her enduring values. As she prepares for her last days on the show, her legacy as a beloved broadcaster and a role model will continue to inspire many.