Hoda Kotb's Farewell Announcement
There's a big change coming to the ‘Today’ show family. Hoda Kotb, the beloved host who has graced our screens for years, has announced she’ll be stepping away from the show in early 2025. This news came during the Thursday, September 26 episode of ‘Today.’ Hoda shared that her recent 60th birthday celebration was a turning point, making her realize it’s time to focus more on her family and personal life. Her last episode will air on January 1, 2025, but don’t worry—she'll still be part of the NBC News family in some capacity.
Hoda’s Heartfelt Letter to Her Colleagues
In a deeply personal letter to her fellow ‘Today’ team members, Hoda opened up about the emotions behind her decision. “As I write this, my heart is all over the map,” she confessed. “I know it’s the right choice, but it’s not an easy one. You all mean the world to me. Life can be complicated, and right now, I’m feeling two things at once: love for you and the need to move on.”
Hoda went on to explain her thought process, saying, “I’ve been debating this for a long time. Am I truly ready? My 60th birthday celebration on the Plaza gave me clarity. It was like a joyful confirmation that it’s time. My broadcast career has been incredibly meaningful, but now, as I enter a new decade of life, my daughters and mom deserve more of my time. I will miss all of you so much, but I’m ready to embrace this next chapter.”
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Hoda’s Journey at NBC
Hoda’s career at NBC has been nothing short of remarkable. She joined the network in 1998 as a correspondent and quickly rose through the ranks. In 2008, she began co-hosting the fourth hour of the ‘Today’ show with Kathie Lee Gifford, and in 2018, she officially became co-host alongside Savannah Guthrie. Along the way, she welcomed her daughters, Haley and Hope, in 2017 and 2019, respectively. These experiences have shaped her life and career in profound ways.
A Thank You to Her 'Today' Family
Throughout her letter, Hoda expressed immense gratitude for the support and friendships she’s built over the years. “My time at NBC has been the longest and most rewarding chapter of my professional life,” she wrote. “But it’s only been possible because of all of you. Over 26 years at NBC News, I’ve worked on ‘Dateline’ for ten years, co-hosted the seven o’clock hour for seven years, and the ten o’clock hour for sixteen. I see your faces and your families, and I’m reminded of how much you’ve lifted me up. Savannah, you’ve been my rock. Jenna, my ride-or-die. Al, my longest friend at 30 Rock. Craig, Carson, Sheinelle, and Dylan—you’re my family. I’ll miss every single one of you at ‘Today.’”
Looking Ahead
Hoda reassured her fans and colleagues that this isn’t a goodbye forever. “There’s plenty of time to talk about what’s next,” she wrote. “But one thing I know for sure is that everything will be okay. The ‘Today’ show and its amazing people— all of you—never falter. You handle change with grace and determination. I’m thrilled to stay part of the NBC family, the longest and most cherished work relationship I’ve ever had. I’ll be around because family is family, and you’ll always be a part of mine.”
During the Thursday episode, Hoda elaborated on her decision, saying, “Obviously, I had my kids late in life, and I realized they deserve a bigger share of my time. Time is limited, and this is one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever made. But it’s the right one for me and my family.”
