Hoda Kotb’s Big Move Leaves Savannah Guthrie Surprised but Supportive
When Hoda Kotb, the beloved co-host of Today, announced her departure, it sent shockwaves through the NBC family. Even Savannah Guthrie, her longtime friend and co-anchor, was taken aback. At 60 years old, Hoda's decision to step away from the morning show after years of dedication left many wondering what the future holds for the iconic duo. During an appearance on Today on September 26, Hoda shared Savannah’s candid response to the news.
Hoda revealed that she reached out to Savannah, who was traveling abroad at the time, to break the news personally. “I called Savannah, who was out of the country, and I said, ‘I have to tell you something.’ She immediately replied, ‘This sounds scary,’” Hoda recounted during a lively appearance on Late Night With Seth Meyers on December 18. It was clear that Savannah wasn’t expecting this bombshell.
“You Got Balls”: Savannah’s Honest Response
But once Hoda reassured her friend that the news wasn’t dire, Savannah quickly shifted gears. “It’s not,” Hoda explained. “I’m going to be, you know, saying goodbye in January.” Savannah’s reaction? Pure admiration. “She said to me, ‘I’m going to tell you something right now.’ And I said, ‘OK.’ She said — these are her words. She goes, ‘You got balls,’” Hoda fondly recalled.
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While Savannah admitted that it would be tough to see her dear friend leave, she couldn’t help but respect Hoda’s courage. “I’m going to be sad for me and for our show later, but not today,” Savannah expressed. “Today’s the day that I say, wow, you’re doing it.” It’s this unwavering support that truly defines their friendship.
Jenna Bush Hager’s Emotional Reaction
Meanwhile, Jenna Bush Hager, Hoda’s co-host on Today With Hoda & Jenna, had a completely different reaction. “She was like, ‘No, no, there is time. No, stop. Stop. Stop. Don’t say any more words,’” Hoda revealed, highlighting Jenna’s emotional response. Jenna, 43, clearly struggled with the idea of saying goodbye to her co-host and friend.
Hoda’s departure marks a significant change for the Today team. Starting January 13, Savannah will be joined by Craig Melvin at the news desk for the early morning hours, ensuring the show continues to deliver the news and entertainment viewers have come to expect.
A Celebration Fit for Hoda
The Today team plans to honor Hoda’s incredible career during her farewell episode on January 10. “You all know that Hoda’s last day is January 10, right? We’re celebrating you the whole week before. And today, we have a big announcement,” Jenna announced during an episode of Today With Hoda & Jenna. The crew will throw a grand “Hoda-bration” to mark the occasion.
Jenna promised that the celebration would include “big surprises, lots of surprises that Hoda won’t even know about.” The event will feature a live studio audience, and Hoda herself was thrilled by the news. “You guys, that’s awesome,” she exclaimed. Even Jenna admitted she was nervous about planning such an emotional send-off. “I was scared I told you,” she confessed. “I can’t remember what I’ve told or who I’ve told.”
“We just really cannot wait to celebrate and send you [off],” Jenna continued. “I don’t know what’s gonna be happening with me because just talking about the ‘Hoda-bration’ brings tears to my eyes. So, we’re hoping we can do it and I can get out alive. But it’s gonna be a beautiful day. … We’re gonna start 2025 with an absolute bang.”
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A Special Year-End Send-Off
Before her final episode, Hoda and Jenna will host A Toast to 2024!, a two-hour NBC special on December 31. The special will feature appearances from celebrities like Reba McEntire, Snoop Dogg, George Lopez, Kristin Chenoweth, Al Roker, Willie Geist, Joel McHale, Lester Holt, and more. According to a press release, the duo will “look back at the year’s buzziest and brightest moments,” making it a fitting tribute to a remarkable year.
