As the broadcasting world buzzes with the news of Hoda Kotb's departure from the iconic 'Today' show, Al Roker took some time to share his thoughts on whether he's considering retirement anytime soon. In a candid interview with People, published on Monday, September 30, Roker opened up about knowing when it's the right time to step away.
“There comes a moment in everyone’s life when you just know it’s time,” Al expressed in his signature down-to-earth manner. “And that was the beautiful thing for Hoda. Whether it’s her or even someone like Joe Biden, everyone has their own reasons for deciding it's time to move on.”
Al Roker: A Reflection on Time and Legacy
Having celebrated his 70th birthday in August, Al Roker acknowledges that the clock is ticking for him as well. He recognizes that eventually, the time will come when he too will have to decide to step away from the show. However, for now, it seems like he’s still enjoying the ride.
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“I don’t feel like it’s my time yet, but who knows? Maybe a year or two from now. Maybe not,” he admitted with a thoughtful smile. “But here’s the thing—when you love what you do, you don’t get off the train until the last stop. I’m having a blast, and this is where I want to be right now.”
Hoda Kotb: A Mother’s Call to Prioritize Family
Hoda Kotb’s decision to leave the 'Today' show was driven by her desire to dedicate more time to her two daughters, Haley and Hope. These little ones, whom she shares with her ex-fiancé Joel Schiffman, mean the world to her.
“I had my kids later in life, and I realized they deserve more of my time. Time is finite, and this was an incredibly tough decision,” Hoda tearfully revealed in her announcement on September 26. “It’s been such an honor to be part of this family, but now it’s time to focus on my own family.”
Al Roker, who has been a close friend and colleague to Hoda for years, couldn’t help but express his admiration for her. “I’ve never known anyone quite like you, Hoda. You’ve been a constant in my life, and I’ll always love you,” he said, visibly moved by her decision.
Understanding the Need for Change
Al completely empathizes with Hoda’s decision to step away and focus on her family. “I’ve been pondering this decision for a while now—Am I truly ready? But after celebrating my 60th birthday on the Plaza, it felt like a turning point,” Hoda explained in a heartfelt letter to her colleagues. “I saw everything so clearly: my career has been incredibly meaningful, but now, a new chapter of my life is beginning. My daughters and my mom need me more, and they deserve more of my time.”
Al knows firsthand the importance of family, being a father to daughter Courtney, from his first marriage to Alice Bell, and children Leila and Nicholas with his current wife, Deborah Roberts. “I’ve been lucky enough to watch my kids grow up. When Courtney was young, I was in local news, so I was home in the mornings with them,” he reflected. “Hoda’s daughters, Haley and Hope, are growing up fast. It’s a cliché, but it’s true—you blink, and they’re all grown up. I completely understand why she made this choice.”
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Though Al is sad to see Hoda leave the 'Today' show, he’s glad that she’ll remain part of the NBC family. “I’d feel a lot worse if she was leaving entirely, but she’s just stepping into a new role within our NBC News family,” the meteorologist reassured. “She’s not going far, and that’s a comfort.”
