Hoda Kotb stepped into a new phase of her life as she bid farewell to the Today show in a heartfelt and emotional celebration. As she walked off the set for the last time, her gratitude was evident, but so was her excitement about the future. According to a close source, Hoda is ready to embrace this change, even though saying goodbye was bittersweet. "Saying goodbye is always a mix of feelings because it marks the end of an era," an insider exclusively told Closer. "But Hoda is prepared for this next chapter. She's not burning any bridges, though. The door will always be open for her, and she might even make a cameo appearance from time to time. However, she has no plans to return full-time. She's ready for what's next, but she'll definitely miss the people she's worked with."
Her Farewell Was Anything But Ordinary
Hoda, who celebrated her 60th birthday recently, marked her final episode on January 10 with a grand celebration on the Today plaza. The event was filled with celebrity guests, gifts, and an outpouring of love from fans. The broadcast was an emotional rollercoaster, with Hoda and her colleagues shedding many tears. "Hoda has built countless friendships on the show, and the reality is that she won't see most of them as often anymore," the insider added. "She plans to take a short break, but don't expect her to disappear for long. She already has a new project lined up to keep her engaged and excited about the future."
Family First, But Work Still Matters
While Hoda's main focus will be her two daughters, she isn't planning to sit at home twiddling her thumbs when they're busy with school. "She still wants to work, but she's looking forward to the freedom of not having to wake up before the sun every day," the source explained. "It will be a refreshing change for her. She's always been passionate about her career, but now she'll have more time to focus on her family and other passions."
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A New Journey in Wellness
Hoda, a proud mom to Haley and Hope, has already announced her plans to enter the wellness space following her departure from Today. "I'm starting a wellness app and company that will involve retreats, a podcast, and so much more," she revealed during a visit to The Kelly Clarkson Show on January 6. "It's not like a typical girls' trip to Mexico. This is something deeper. When you leave, you'll feel transformed, like you've experienced something truly meaningful."
Hoda admitted that venturing into the wellness world wasn't always her plan. "At first, I thought these practices were a bit 'woo-woo' and strange," she shared. "But as I started incorporating them into my life, I noticed a difference. I felt calmer, more centered. Sometimes, the things that seem unconventional can be the most rewarding."
Staying Connected with NBC
As Hoda prepares for her next adventure, she's also announced that she's signed a new deal with NBC. While she's no longer part of the Today team, she remains connected to the network. "I want to play a supporting role on a team that's already in place," she told Page Six on January 9. "I'll come in and contribute where I can. I also plan to continue my 'Making Space' podcast, which I absolutely love. And for Today, we discussed doing something every four to six weeks, just to keep the connection alive."
Hoda also addressed rumors that her departure was due to money disputes. "This job is incredible, and I don't do it for the paycheck," she clarified. "I do it because I love it. Money has never been the driving force for me. I've taken jobs I loved and negotiated for what I needed. This decision was about more than money—it was about the next chapter of my life."
