Alright, let’s dive into this exciting news about Hoda Kotb and Kathie Lee Gifford. If you’ve been a fan of these two dynamic women, you know they’ve been through thick and thin together, creating unforgettable moments on the Today show. Now, as Hoda prepares to step away from Today, insiders say she’s got big plans ahead, and guess what? Kathie Lee is definitely part of those plans!
Hoda's New Chapter and Kathie Lee's Role
Let’s break it down. Hoda Kotb is not just stepping away from Today; she’s stepping into a brand-new chapter of her life. An insider exclusively told Closer, “Hoda is in the planning stages of re-establishing her media footprint, and Kathie Lee is part of those discussions and that planning.” It’s not just about reuniting; it’s about reinventing what they can do together in the ever-evolving world of media. “Hoda has only one shot at this, and it’s great to see Kathie Lee on the same page as far as getting into new media, podcasts, and redefining the relationship they have with their fans,” the source adds.
Why Fans Are Excited
Now, here’s the kicker: fans are the heart of this entire plan. People want to see—or even just hear—Hoda and Kathie Lee together again. The timing couldn’t be better with the massive podcast boom happening right now. Imagine tuning in to hear their banter, their stories, and their unfiltered takes on life. It’s a dream come true for their loyal fanbase.
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Hoda, who will be 60 when she wraps up her final episode on Today on January 10, after an incredible 17-year run, broke the news back on September 26. She promised the world she’d spend more time with her daughters, Haley and Hope, once she takes her final bow on Today. But don’t think for a second that she’s slowing down. Not at all.
What's Next for Hoda?
Although she’s leaving the show, Hoda has no plans to retire. She’ll still remain a valued member of the NBC family. And she’s already brainstorming ideas for what’s next. “The clock is ticking because Hoda knows that she only has a limited time to lock in her plans, and Kathie Lee is primed to return to daily media,” the source explains. “But right now, Hoda has to drive the process, come up with the format, and figure out how to recreate that chemistry with Kathie Lee that was such a hit for so many years.”
Kathie Lee, who is now 71, left Today back in 2019. NBC brought in Jenna Bush Hager to take over her spot in the fourth hour alongside Hoda. But now, Hoda’s got her sights set on establishing a career in the wellness space. She’s already hinted at what’s coming next. “I’m going to be in this space, and it hasn’t been fully formed,” she told Women’s Health in October. “There’s no meat on the bones, but we are working towards some things that I think are going to be really exciting and fun. It’s about making wellness accessible to someone who’s never tried it.”
Hoda Finds Inspiration in Katie Couric
And guess who Hoda’s looking up to for inspiration? None other than Today alum Katie Couric. The source says, “Katie Couric has set the bar in the podcast space for former morning show hosts, and it’s up to Hoda to show that she can build the same kind of success. Her chances for that massively improve if she can bring Kathie Lee into the tent.”
Hoda and Kathie Lee have remained close friends since Kathie Lee left Today. Just recently, on Sunday, December 8, the two reunited to attend a New York Giants game at MetLife Stadium with their families. Hoda shared photos from the game on her Instagram page, calling it a “great day.”
