Hoda Kotb’s Bucket List Moment
Let’s talk about dreams coming true. Hoda Kotb, the beloved co-host of Today, has always been one to believe that dreams can become reality. And during her time covering the Paris Olympics, she checked off a major bucket-list item. Hoda got the chance to meet one of her all-time favorite celebrities, and she didn’t waste a moment to share the excitement with her fans.
On July 27, the 59-year-old Hoda shared a memorable photo on Instagram with none other than Tom Cruise. It was a moment that sent ripples through her fanbase, proving that even for someone as accomplished as Hoda, meeting a Hollywood legend can still feel like magic.
A Rainy Day in Paris Turns Magical
Hoda captioned the Instagram post with a playful nod to the surreal nature of meeting someone you’ve admired for so long. She wrote, “Do you know when you dream of meeting Tom Cruise … And then it finally happens.” Now, picture this: Hoda, bundled up in a practical but not-so-fashion-forward poncho to battle the Paris rain, standing next to Tom Cruise, who looked every bit the Hollywood star with his signature smile and slightly damp hair.
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Hoda Reflects on the Moment with Jenna and Al
During a Today episode on Monday, July 29, Hoda couldn’t help but laugh as she recounted the moment to her co-stars. Jenna Bush Hager, ever the witty one, quipped, “Did your dream include a terrible poncho?” Hoda laughed it off, but Al Roker was quick to jump in, saying, “Hey, that’s what makes it better.” It’s these little details that make the story even more relatable. Who doesn’t have that one outfit that ends up being part of their greatest memory?

Savannah Guthrie Shares Her Paris Experience
Savannah Guthrie, who was also in Paris covering the Olympics, chimed in with her own perspective on the encounter. “It was a moment that none of us will forget,” Savannah said. She recalled how Tom Cruise, unlike many other celebrities who left after the opening ceremony, stuck around, giving Hoda the perfect opportunity to snap that unforgettable photo. Savannah joked about Hoda disappearing briefly, only to return triumphantly with “the shot.”
She added with a laugh, “She got the shot. Soaking wet Tom Cruise and Hoda in her poncho.” It’s these little details that make the story feel so real and relatable. Sometimes, it’s the unexpected moments that become the most cherished memories.
The Conversation with Tom Cruise
When asked about her interaction with Tom, Hoda shared that the Mission Impossible star was incredibly gracious. “He was very nice to everybody and was taking pictures with everybody,” she said. Hoda, a huge fan of the U.S. gymnastics team, attended several gymnastics events after the opening ceremony. Interestingly, Tom Cruise was also there, cheering on the gymnasts.
Savannah joked that Tom seemed to be following Hoda around, saying, “He recognized you and he was like, ‘Oh, you’re here [to cover the Olympics].’ And then he followed you to the gymnastics [competition]. You guys keep hanging out.” It’s fun to imagine two fans of the Olympics bonding over their shared love for the games.
Hoda’s Heartfelt Moments Away from Home
While the Olympics have been a dream come true for Hoda, she admitted that leaving her daughters, Haley and Hope, at home wasn’t easy. But she’s found creative ways to stay connected with them while she’s abroad. On Instagram, she shared a sweet photo of handmade clocks she created for her kids, so they could keep track of the time difference between Paris and New York.
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“Clocks for my kids,” she captioned the heartwarming photo. During a July 22 episode of Today, Hoda revealed another thoughtful gesture. “I do a loop a day where we hide a little something like stickers or hair ties, and then they know how many days are left,” she told her co-stars. These small but meaningful acts show just how much Hoda values her connection with her daughters, even from afar.


