Hoda Kotb has had her fair share of dating struggles over the years, and now, with her decision to leave Today, she’s hopeful that love might finally find her. This isn’t just a career move for Hoda—it’s a chance to focus on herself and perhaps find that special someone who can share in her joy and life.
“She’s been incredibly brave about her situation, but let’s face it, everyone knows she’s feeling the loneliness and embarrassment from past dating disappointments,” an insider exclusively shares with Closer. “Hoda will always put her daughters first, no doubt about that, but finding a partner to share her happiness is a major goal for her. She’s been open about this on the show and even outside of work.”
A New Chapter in Hoda’s Life
At 60, Hoda made a bold announcement on September 26: she’s stepping away from Today after 17 incredible years as coanchor. NBC hasn’t named her replacement yet, but fans are cherishing her final months on the show. Early 2025 will see Hoda’s official farewell as cohost, and after that, who knows? Love might just find her in her newfound free time.
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“This new chapter will give Hoda the opportunity to step back, breathe, and relax. Hopefully, it’ll lead her to that special someone she’s been longing for,” the source reveals. “Hoda truly believes that staying on Today indefinitely would’ve made this impossible.”
Hoda’s Dating Adventures
In the months leading up to her Today departure announcement, Hoda shared her plans to dive back into the dating scene after her breakup with ex-fiancé Joel Schiffman. Back in March, it was revealed that Today cohost Jenna Bush Hager set her up with a mystery man. “I had such a great time on our date. I loved it,” Hoda told Entertainment Tonight. “There’s already been a second one. We’re planning our third. It’s really fun.”
Things seemed hopeful for Hoda in the romance department, but a few months later, she revealed that the relationship wasn’t meant to be. “I did go on the third date, but I realized in that moment—this person is a wonderful human being, but they’ve got a lot going on,” Hoda explained during an August 20 episode of “The Jamie Kern Lima Show” podcast. “I’m looking for something simpler, something that fits more into my life right now.”
Hoda assured everyone that things ended on good terms. “It’s all good. No drama, nothing funky,” she said with a laugh. “He’s super cute, extremely handsome. Maybe I’ll show you a picture later, but for now, things are on hold.”
Reflecting on Her Relationship with Joel Schiffman
In the same podcast interview, Hoda opened up about why her relationship with Joel didn’t work out. “Joel is one of the best people I’ve ever met. He’s an amazing human being,” she said. “And I think I’m pretty great too, but sometimes two great people together just don’t click the way you hope.”
Hoda and Joel adopted daughters Haley and Hope during their relationship. Despite their love for each other, they realized they were growing at different paces. “We were out of sync, and that made it hard,” she explained. “I think a lot of people experience this. One person wants one thing, and the other wants something else.”
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When asked if she’s met anyone new since her breakup, Hoda replied, “Not yet. But I’m hopeful for the future.”
