Hoda Kotb's Departure: Jenna Bush Hager's Honest Reaction
Let me tell you something real, folks. Jenna Bush Hager didn't see it coming. Not even close. The former first daughter, who's been a mainstay on the "Today" show, recently opened up about her raw emotions regarding Hoda Kotb's decision to step away from the iconic morning program. Jenna spilled her heart during an episode of her "Open Book With Jenna" podcast, aired on Thursday, December 5, and let's just say it was an emotional rollercoaster.
“I mean, to be completely honest, I was absolutely floored,” Jenna admitted to podcast guest Matt Rogers. “I couldn’t believe it. Shocked. Like, really shocked.” Jenna’s candid admission shows just how much Hoda’s decision blindsided her, even though the two share a close-knit friendship. It's not every day that someone you work with—and consider family—decides to move on from something so monumental.
Learning the News: Jenna's Personal Journey
So here's the deal: Jenna found out about Hoda's departure just a week before the news went public. “She told me as soon as she’d made the decision,” Jenna revealed. But even then, it didn't make the news any easier to digest. Jenna went on to explain why Hoda's choices, while sometimes surprising, always make sense for her. “Hoda does things her way,” Jenna said. “And that's why I respect her so much. She truly listens to herself, which is why her decisions, while surprising to others, always feel right for her.”
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It’s worth noting that Hoda, who turned 60 this year, made the announcement on "Today" back on September 26. She’ll officially leave the show in January 2025, marking the end of an era for the NBC broadcast. The episode where she broke the news was nothing short of emotional, and it had everyone, including Jenna, in tears.
Emotional Goodbyes: Jenna's Tribute to Hoda
Now, let's talk about that emotional goodbye. Jenna was visibly emotional when Hoda delivered the news to the audience. “It’s not over,” Jenna reassured Hoda, fighting back tears. “I’m going to be showing up at your house like the stalker you are to Zac Brown. I’ll be there on your doorstep, and we are your friends forever.” It was a heartfelt moment that showcased just how much Jenna values her friendship with Hoda.
But Jenna isn’t just mourning the loss of her cohost. She’s fully supportive of Hoda’s decision to step away. “Now that I’ve had time to process it, I’m like, ‘Oh yeah, I totally get it,’” Jenna admitted. “But when everyone kept saying, ‘Oh my God, congratulations,’ I felt like I’d been dumped. Not really, because she’s choosing herself. I get that. But my heart was — is broken a little.”
Hoda’s Legacy: A Mother First
Hoda’s decision to leave "Today" isn’t just about stepping away from the spotlight. It’s about prioritizing what matters most to her—her family. As a mom to daughters Haley and Hope, Hoda’s move is all about spending more quality time with them. Her final episode is set for January 10, and fans can’t wait to see how she’ll embrace this next chapter in her life.
A New Era for 'Today': Craig Melvin Steps In
As Jenna continues her search for a permanent cohost for the fourth hour of "Today," Craig Melvin has been announced as Hoda’s replacement for the early morning segment. The 45-year-old journalist is set to debut on January 13, stepping into the role as Savannah Guthrie’s official coanchor. Sources tell Closer that Craig is feeling the pressure as the big day approaches.
“Nobody’s questioning whether he’s worth it,” an insider revealed. “He’s a very talented guy who’s worked incredibly hard for this opportunity. The entire team is on board with him taking on this role, but of course, the pressure is really on because he’s got huge shoes to fill.”
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“Hoda is a total legend,” the source added. “The audience loved her and so did the network. Craig has a lot of goodwill, and no doubt he’ll throw himself into the job and give it everything he’s got, but ultimately it will come down to the ratings.”
But here’s the thing: Fans of the show are confident that Craig is up for the challenge. He’s already shown that he and Savannah have a natural chemistry, which bodes well for the future. “Everyone seems to be confident that he’s up for the challenge,” the source said. “But if the audience starts to tune out, his job will be on the line. There’s just no getting around that. He’s definitely going to be in the hot seat for a while.”
