Hey there, friends. If you’ve been tuning into "Today" for the last 16 years, you’ve probably grown to love Hoda Kotb as much as I have. Well, get ready for some big news—Hoda Kotb announced that she’ll be leaving the show in early 2025. This news has left both her loyal audience and her coworkers feeling emotional. Fans are now wondering what led to this decision, and it’s a story worth diving into.
What Made Hoda Kotb Decide to Leave 'Today'?
On September 26, 2024, Hoda Kotb shared the news with her fans in her usual warm and candid style. She revealed that celebrating her 60th birthday was a pivotal moment that inspired her decision to step down from her role on "Today." But here’s the kicker—Hoda isn’t just stepping away for herself; she’s doing it for her family. As a devoted mom to her two young daughters, Haley and Hope, she wants to dedicate more time to them. Her final episode will air on January 1, 2025, giving her a chance to wrap up her incredible journey with the "Today" family.
Hoda Kotb's Letter to the 'Today' Team: A Farewell from the Heart
Hoda Kotb, the queen of heartfelt moments, couldn’t hold back the emotions as she read a letter she wrote to her fellow "Today" staff members. It was a deeply personal message filled with gratitude and love for everyone she’s worked with over the years.
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“As I sit here writing this, my heart feels like it’s scattered everywhere. I know this is the right decision, but it’s not an easy one. You guys are the reason why it’s so hard,” Hoda began, her voice trembling with emotion. “My time at NBC has been the longest and most passionate love affair of my professional life. And it’s only because you’ve been by my side for this incredible twenty-six-year adventure. Think about that for a moment—twenty-six years at NBC News! Ten years at 'Dateline,' seven on the 7 o’clock hour, and sixteen unforgettable years on the 10 o’clock hour. That’s some serious dedication, right?”
She went on, “I can picture all of your faces, your families, and all the ways you’ve lifted me up and inspired me. That’s what makes my heart sing. So many of my professional relationships have turned into the most cherished friendships I could ever ask for.”
Hoda then took a moment to address some of her closest coworkers, like Savannah Guthrie, Jenna Bush Hager, and Al Roker. She called them her "rock," her "ride-or-die," and her "longest friend at 30 Rock," respectively. She also thanked Craig Melvin, Carson Daly, Sheinelle Jones, Dylan Dreyer, and other beloved members of the "Today" family, expressing her gratitude for their support over the years.
“Savannah, my rock. Jenna, my ride-or-die. Al, my longest friend at 30 Rock. Craig Melvin, Carson Daly, Sheinelle Jones, and Dylan Dreyer—my family. Libby Leist, Tom ‘Mazz’ Mazzarelli, and Talia Parkinson-Jones—my fearless leaders. I will miss each and every one of you at 'Today' so much,” Hoda said, her voice heavy with emotion.
Hoda concluded her letter with a message of hope and gratitude. “I’ve thought long and hard about this decision—Am I truly ready? But celebrating my 60th birthday on the Plaza was a turning point. It felt like a big, joyful YES. I saw everything so clearly: my broadcast career has been beyond meaningful, a new chapter of my life is ahead, and now my daughters and my mom deserve more of my time. I will miss you all so much, but I’m ready and excited for what’s next,” she said.
“Since I’ll be working through the start of 2025, we’ll have plenty of time to talk about what’s ahead for all of us. But one thing I know for sure right now is this: everything will be just fine. The Peacock’s feathers are never ruffled, no matter who comes or goes. 'Today' and its amazing people—each and every one of you—always handle change with grace and determination.”
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When Did Hoda Kotb First Join 'Today'?
Hoda Kotb’s journey with "Today" began way back in 1998 when she started as a correspondent. In 2007, she made the leap to co-host the fourth hour of the show alongside her dear friend Kathie Lee Gifford. When Kathie Lee retired in April 2019, Jenna Bush Hager stepped in to take her place. In 2018, Hoda moved up to co-host the first two hours of the morning show with Savannah Guthrie, marking yet another milestone in her storied career.
