When Hoda Kotb pulled Craig Melvin aside to deliver some unexpected news, the Today cohost admits he was completely blindsided. "I remember that morning vividly," Craig, 45, revealed during an interview with Parade published on January 10. "Hoda doesn't just pop into my dressing room—it's two doors down from hers. When she knocked that day, I knew something was up."
Craig recalled the moment vividly: "She asked if I had a moment, and her tone was serious. When she stepped inside and said, 'I just wanted to tell you something. I'm leaving,' I immediately thought the worst. 'Are you sick? Is everything okay?' I couldn't believe what I was hearing. In my mind, no one willingly walks away from a job like this—it's a dream gig for so many people."
Craig went on to explain how Hoda reassured him about her decision. "She was so calm and matter-of-fact. 'It's time,' she said. 'I want to leave while I'm still on top.' I remember thinking, 'Is someone forcing her out?' But she quickly put that concern to rest. 'No, Craig, I'm okay. I'm leaving because it's the right time.' It took me a moment to process, and even after she left, I double-checked with her. 'Are you sure you're okay?' It takes immense courage to walk away when you're at the peak of your career."
Read also:Whoopi Goldberg Canrsquot Handle Talking About Jlo And Ben Afflecks Divorce
Hoda's Departure: A Bold Move at the Height of Her Success
Savannah Guthrie, who teamed up with Hoda, 60, as cohost of Today in 2018, had her own unique reaction to the news. "I was shocked—but not shocked," the Arizona-born journalist, 53, admitted to Parade. "Over the years, Hoda and I have had deep conversations about our dreams and what comes next in life. We've talked about transitioning and being bold. I could sense it was something she was considering in her heart for a while."
Savannah continued, "Hoda is as popular and talented as ever. She's at the top of her game. Yet, she decided to step into the unknown. That takes incredible bravery, and I find it truly inspiring."
Hoda's Legacy on 'Today' and Her Heartfelt Farewell
In September 2024, Hoda announced her decision to leave the Today show after an impressive 17-year run. She initially joined the show's fourth hour in 2007 alongside Kathie Lee Gifford. When Kathie Lee moved on in 2019 to explore broader career opportunities, Jenna Bush Hager stepped in to take her place.
Reflecting on her decision, Hoda shared, "I had my children later in life, and they deserve more of my time. They need me to be present, and I want to give them the attention they deserve." Hoda adopted her daughter Haley Joy in 2017 and added to her family with the adoption of Hope Catherine in 2019.
As Hoda bid farewell during the final episode of Today With Hoda & Jenna on January 10, she delivered a heartfelt letter to her audience. "Sixteen years ago, I sat next to Kathie Lee, and she changed my life," she reminisced. "She believed in me when I didn't believe in myself. I was a hard-news person, a Dateline reporter, and then one day, she called me 'Hoda Woman.' That was the beginning of an incredible journey."
Hoda continued, "When Haley was born, I became 'Hoda Mama.' You held me up during those early days, and your support meant everything to me. Then Hopey came along, and our family grew even more. When I turned 60, you threw me the most amazing party. It was such a high point in my life that I knew right then and there this was the peak. There was no higher point."
Read also:George Clooney Talks Broadway Family Life In Nyc And Balancing It All
In her final message, Hoda expressed gratitude to her viewers. "Thank you for inviting me into your
