Hoda Kotb Embraces Change in Her Personal and Professional Life
Let me tell you something about Hoda Kotb—she’s one of those people who knows how to take life’s twists and turns and make them work for her. At 60 years old, this television icon isn’t just wrapping up her time on Today; she’s also putting the past behind her when it comes to personal matters. On September 26, Hoda announced she’d be leaving the morning show after years of brightening our mornings with her energy and charm. But that’s not all—she’s also moved on from her 2022 split from ex-fiancé Joel Schiffman, according to an exclusive source close to the star.
Regrets and Understanding: Hoda’s Perspective on the Split
Now, here’s where things get interesting. While Hoda does regret the breakup with Joel, it wasn’t as simple as people might think. “It was more complicated than her having a busy career,” the source explains. Let’s face it, Hoda’s career has always been demanding, but that wasn’t the only factor at play here. The two met back in 2013, though they didn’t go public until two years later. Together, they share daughters Haley Joy and Hope Catherine, but over time, their lives started moving in different directions. Hoda herself admitted that they were “growing at different paces.”
According to the Closer source, Joel didn’t prioritize raising young children, and Hoda understands that completely. “She doesn’t fault him for his decision,” the insider reveals. “It was sad at first. She still misses him, but she’s moved on from that.” That’s a powerful statement because it shows Hoda’s resilience and ability to move forward with grace.
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A Look Back: How Hoda and Joel Met
Back in 2015, during an episode of Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen, Hoda opened up about how she and Joel first connected. The Oklahoma native confessed to asking someone to check on Joel’s relationship status. Her friend sent Joel an email, and in return, he emailed Hoda and asked her out on a date. Can you imagine? It sounds like something out of a romantic movie, doesn’t it?
After years of dating, Hoda announced their engagement during the November 25, 2019, episode of Today. But life has its own plans, and in January 2022, she shocked Today fans when she revealed their engagement had ended. They decided to focus on co-parenting as friends instead of pursuing a romantic relationship.
Hoda’s Honest Take on Relationships
Fast forward to August, and Hoda got candid about why their paths diverged. “Joel is one of the best people I know, and he really is a great human being,” she said on the August 13 episode of “The Jamie Kern Lima Show.” “And I feel like I’m a pretty great human being, but sometimes two great human beings together isn’t quite enough to make it work.”
She elaborated, explaining that it became difficult for them to stay in sync. “I think a lot of people are probably in these situations. One person’s growing … or one person wants it this way, and one person wants it that way.” It’s a relatable sentiment, isn’t it? Relationships aren’t always easy, even between two wonderful people.
A New Beginning for Hoda
Last week, another source told Closer that Hoda might finally have the opportunity to focus on finding love again now that she’ll have some distance from Today. “She’s put a very brave face on her situation, but ultimately everyone knows she’s lonely and highly embarrassed to have suffered so much disappointment and rejection,” the insider shared. “She’s always going to put her daughters first, but finding a man to share her happiness is a huge priority as well.”
In early 2025, Hoda will officially sign off for her final broadcast as a Today cohost. This marks the start of a brand-new chapter for her. “This new schedule will enable Hoda to get out there and breathe, relax, then hopefully connect with that special someone at long last,” the source explained. “It’s her firm belief that if she’d stayed on Today, this wouldn’t have been possible.”
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