Hoda Kotb's Decision to Prioritize Family Life
Let’s talk about Hoda Kotb. You know her, right? She’s the warm, engaging co-host of the 'Today' show who’s been lighting up our mornings for years. But recently, Hoda made a big decision that’s resonating with so many parents out there. According to an insider speaking exclusively to Closer, her two daughters, Haley and Hope, were a major factor in her choice to step back from the daily grind of 'Today.'
Let me tell you, this wasn’t a decision Hoda made lightly. Sources close to her say she’s been pondering it for a while now. But it was last year, when her youngest daughter, Hope, became ill, that things really clicked for her. “She spent a lot of time reflecting on her priorities after that,” the source shared. “And she came to the realization that she wanted to be home more, to give her girls the time and attention they deserve.” That’s something we can all relate to, right?
A Heartfelt Moment: Hope’s Hospitalization
In February 2023, Hoda took a step back from 'Today' because her youngest daughter, Hope, was hospitalized due to an undisclosed illness. This was a difficult time for Hoda, who shares her daughters with her ex-fiancé, Joel Schiffman. It’s not easy to step away from a job you love, especially one as high-profile as hers, but Hoda knew her family needed her. After a brief hiatus, she returned to the show in March 2023, but the experience had clearly left a lasting impact on her.
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When she spoke to 'Today' viewers about the situation, her words were heartfelt and honest. “My youngest, Hope, was in the ICU for a few days and in the hospital for a little over a week,” she shared. “I’m so grateful she’s home. She’s back where she belongs, and we’re watching her closely. I waited so long for that day to come, and now that it’s here, I’m just so happy.”
Hoda also took a moment to thank the medical professionals who helped care for Hope. “I’m so grateful for the doctors at Weill Cornell who were amazing, and the nurses who were there for us every step of the way,” she said. “And I’m grateful to my family and friends who stood by me through it all. To all of you, I just want to say thank you. I love you.”
Gratitude and Reflection: Hoda’s Heartfelt Words
Hoda’s 'Today' co-stars were there for her every step of the way, stepping in to keep the show running while she focused on her family. In May 2023, during National Nurses Week, Hoda shared a touching story about one of the nurses who cared for Hope. “I was sitting in the hospital at 3 a.m., feeling so overwhelmed,” she recalled. “Then this nurse walked in and just placed her hand on my back. She didn’t say a word, but her presence meant everything to me. That’s what nurses do—they don’t just care for the patient; they care for the whole family.”
Hoda also shared a story about how she wanted to give Hope a bath during her hospital stay. “I remember asking for a bath for her,” Hoda said. “I just wanted to give her a proper bath, and they could only sponge her. I begged them, ‘Please, I just want to give my child a bath.’ We ended up using a little plastic tub in the shower, and it meant the world to me at that moment.”
A New Chapter for Hoda Kotb
Hoda made her big announcement about leaving 'Today' on September 26 during an episode of the show. She explained that becoming a mom later in life was one of the reasons she felt it was time to make this change. “I had my kids later in life, and I’ve been thinking that they deserve a bigger piece of my time,” she said. “We only have so much time in this life, and I want to make the most of it with my family.”
While Hoda is stepping away from 'Today' in early 2025, she’ll still remain part of the NBC family. It’s a bittersweet moment for her, and for all of us who’ve grown to love her presence on our screens. But as she moves into this new chapter, we can’t help but feel inspired by her decision to prioritize what truly matters—her family.
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