Hoda Kotb and her former fiancé, Joel Schiffman, were on the verge of walking down the aisle multiple times before both realized they simply weren’t meant to grow old together as a couple. As an insider exclusively told Closer, this wasn’t a decision made lightly. Instead, it came after deep reflection and understanding that sometimes, life takes unexpected turns.
Parting Ways Amicably
According to sources, Hoda and Joel are parting ways with grace and respect, especially since they share the joy of raising two beautiful daughters, Haley Joy and Hope Catherine, who were adopted. Their engagement, which was announced back in November 2019, had many expecting a fairy-tale ending. However, after postponing their October 2020 wedding due to the pandemic, they hoped to tie the knot in the summer of 2021. Ultimately, though, they decided that being friends and co-parents is where their bond shines brightest. Hoda shared this revelation on Today on January 31, explaining that sometimes relationships evolve into something different than what was originally planned.
Life Takes Unexpected Turns
Feelings change, priorities shift, and life often throws curveballs. That’s the reality Hoda and Joel faced. As one insider puts it, “They’re both at an age where they don’t feel the pressure to stay together just because they have young children and got engaged. They didn’t overcomplicate things; they told the girls that daddy was going to live in his own house.” It’s a testament to their maturity that they chose to prioritize their daughters’ well-being above all else. While their romantic journey didn’t lead to a lifetime together, what they had was undeniably special, and they remain committed to raising their girls together as loving parents.
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Adoption Plans and Family Dynamics
Hoda has always been vocal about her love for motherhood, even revealing during a July 2021 episode of Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen that she and Joel had considered adopting a third child. The bestselling author confessed that the pandemic had slowed down the process, admitting that it wasn’t turning out quite as expected. While Hoda’s passion for expanding her family remains strong, it seems that Joel struggled with the idea of raising more children. “He’s a great dad,” the source notes, “but they didn’t always see eye-to-eye on everything. Hoda loves being a mom—it’s a calling she came to later in life—and she’s happier than ever. If given the chance, she would adopt more kids.”
Embracing Change
During the emotional segment on Today with Hoda & Jenna, Hoda beautifully articulated the essence of their decision, saying, “Sometimes relationships are meant to be there for a reason, or a season, or for a lifetime.” She added, “I feel like ours was meant to be there for a season.” This perspective underscores the couple’s mutual respect and understanding, proving that love doesn’t always mean staying together forever—it means doing what’s best for everyone involved.
Representatives for Hoda and Joel did not immediately respond to Closer’s request for comment. Regardless, the couple’s focus remains on their daughters and ensuring they continue to thrive in a loving environment.
