Hoda Kotb Tears Up During Heartfelt Farewell Messages on 'Today'

There were few dry eyes in the studio as Hoda Kotb experienced a deeply emotional moment on Today. As the beloved broadcaster prepares to step away from the show early next year, she's receiving an outpouring of love from her celebrity guests. One of those touching moments unfolded during a recent episode when actor Jason Segel paid tribute to her incredible career and the impact she's had on so many lives.

On a memorable Wednesday, October 16, Jason Segel, 44, sat down with Hoda, 60, and delivered words that left the seasoned journalist visibly moved. "I’m going to miss you when you’re gone," Jason said sincerely. "I just want you to know these interviews have been some of the best of my whole career, so I’m really grateful to know you." It was a heartfelt moment that resonated not only with Hoda but with viewers tuning in from across the country.

As Jason’s kind words filled the studio, the camera panned to Hoda, revealing her emotional reaction. Her eyes welled up with tears as she absorbed the sincerity of Jason’s message. "Wow… thanks," she managed to reply, her voice breaking as she gave in to the emotions bubbling within her. The genuine connection between the two was palpable, showcasing the deep respect and admiration they hold for each other.

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Hoda Receives More Compliments as She Prepares for Her Final Months

The emotional send-off didn't stop with Jason. Just the day before, another iconic star, Henry Winkler, also took the time to express his admiration for Hoda. During his appearance on Today on Tuesday, October 15, Henry paused to deliver a heartfelt tribute to both Hoda and Jenna Bush Hager.

“Before I go any further, I want to say this,” Henry began, addressing the hosts. “I know that a lot of people have sat here. There are a lot of guests that come through this show that you have been doing for a long time. You two make each guest feel like they are the only guest.” His words highlighted the unique ability Hoda and Jenna have to create an environment where every guest feels valued and appreciated.

Henry then turned his attention directly to Hoda, recognizing her upcoming departure. “And I just want to say on behalf of my wife, Stacey, and I, we are going to miss you, as America is going to miss you,” he said earnestly. “Thank you for always making me welcome. The two of you have a chemistry that is going to be very difficult to fill. That is the truth.”

Hoda Kotb Breaks Down in Tears During Jason Segel's Speech — Debra L Rothenberg/WireImage

Jenna Bush Hager, 42, lightened the mood with a touch of humor, offering a playful response to Henry’s compliment. "Well, if you want a job, there’s one opening up," she quipped, drawing laughter from the studio audience. But Henry was quick to assure everyone that he was being completely sincere. "But I’m not kidding," he reiterated. "There you go. I love you very much. You have always made me feel wonderful.”

Hoda's Farewell: A New Chapter Begins

Hoda announced her decision to leave Today on September 26 during a heartfelt broadcast. Turning 60 marked a pivotal moment in her life, prompting her to seek new adventures. "I realized that it was time for me to turn the page at 60, and to try something new," she explained during the broadcast. "I remembered standing outside looking at these beautiful bunch of people with these gorgeous signs, and I thought, ‘This is what the top of the wave feels like for me.’ And I thought it can’t get better, and I decided that this is the right time for me to kind of move on.”

Before her on-air announcement, Hoda penned a heartfelt letter to her colleagues, expressing her gratitude for the incredible journey they've shared. "My time at NBC has been the longest professional love affair of my life. But only because you’ve been beside me on this twenty-six-year adventure,” she wrote. Reflecting on her tenure, she marveled at the numbers: 26 years at NBC News, 10 years at Dateline, seven on the 7 o’clock hour, and 16 on the 10 o’clock hour. She acknowledged the support of her colleagues and friends, calling them her "fearless leaders" and "family," and expressed her deep appreciation for the friendships forged along the way.