Jenna Bush Hager's Tears on 'Today With Hoda & Jenna'
When Hoda Kotb announced her plans to leave the 'Today' show, Jenna Bush Hager couldn't hold back the tears. It was Thursday, September 26, and the episode was filled with both heart-wrenching moments and surprising revelations for everyone involved, from the cast to the crew. At the center of it all was Hoda, who at 60 years old, revealed that her final 'Today' broadcast would take place next year.
In her announcement, Hoda expressed her reasons for stepping away, stating, "My broadcast career has been beyond meaningful, but a new decade of my life lies ahead, and now my daughters and my mom need and deserve a bigger slice of my time pie." She continued, "I will miss you all desperately, but I’m ready and excited for this next chapter." Her words resonated deeply with those around her, especially Jenna.
A Look Back at Jenna's Journey with Hoda
On 'Today With Hoda & Jenna,' Jenna reflected on how Hoda had always believed in her, even before she secured her full-time position on 'Today.' "You are the person I come to, and you believed in me first," Jenna said, her voice cracking with emotion as tears streamed down her face. "We have a lot of bosses, and I love them, but this lady on October 28, 2013 — I looked it up — said, 'Hey, want to come sit next to me? There’s room.'"
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Hoda responded with her characteristic warmth, saying, "Looking at you and seeing magic was one of the easiest things I’ve ever seen in my life." The two shared a moment of mutual admiration, underscoring the deep bond they’ve formed over the years.
Memories and Reflections
Hoda also recalled Jenna's call to her father, former President George W. Bush, when she landed her current role on 'Today.' "You called your dad, and I remember when you first started working together with me, you were afraid," Hoda said, highlighting Jenna's early insecurities about joining the show.
Jenna reflected on that conversation, saying, "I called my dad when I started, and he said, 'I’m so happy for you. And Hoda’s the star. You’re going to be OK with that, right? You’re going to be OK sharing the spotlight with the star?' And I said, 'Yeah, of course.'" It was a poignant reminder of how much Jenna admired Hoda and how she has grown under her mentorship.
After learning about Hoda's departure, Jenna reached out to her dad to share the news. "I called him last night. First, he thought something really awful [happened], like a lost loved one, because of how emotional I was," she explained. Her dad reassured her, saying, "Oh, she’s leaving because it’s time, and you’re going to be fine. It’s your turn. It’s OK." Hoda echoed this sentiment, adding, "Whoever sits in this seat is going to have the easiest job in the world because they’re sitting next to you. The only thing they have to do is not laugh so hard they pee their pants. That’s it; they just have to hang on. You’re this bright light, you always have been, and it’s your turn. Your dad is so wise."
Jenna humbly responded, "If I’m bright, it’s because I’m sitting in your glow." It was a touching moment that highlighted their mutual respect and admiration.
What's Next for 'Today'?
While Hoda's replacement for the show’s fourth hour has not been officially announced, there are several strong contenders who could fill the role, such as Willie Geist, Sheinelle Jones, and Craig Melvin. However, Hoda will remain on the program until early 2025 and continue to be part of the NBC family. Her future holds endless possibilities, but her primary focus will be spending more quality time with her daughters, Haley and Hope.
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Reflecting on her decision, Hoda said, "Obviously I had my kiddos late in life, and I was thinking that they deserve a bigger piece of my time pie that I have. I feel like we only have a finite amount of time." Her words were a powerful reminder of the importance of family and balance in life.
