Life is full of unexpected inspirations, and for Hoda Kotb, one of those inspirations came in the form of Sandra Bullock. The beloved Today show host opened up about how Sandra Bullock, an Oscar-winning actress and mom, played a pivotal role in shaping her own path to motherhood. Hoda, who recently celebrated her 59th birthday, revealed during an interview with TODAY.com on July 9 that Sandra’s journey as a mom influenced her decision to adopt her own children.

Hoda's Admiration for Sandra Bullock

During the interview, Hoda shared her deep admiration for Sandra Bullock, a fellow 59-year-old who has not only achieved success as an actress and producer but also as a mom to Louis and Laila, whom she adopted in 2010 and 2015, respectively. Hoda expressed her hope to have Sandra as a guest on her "Making Space" podcast someday. Sandra’s story resonated with Hoda on a personal level, inspiring her to take the leap into motherhood through adoption.

A Life-Changing Influence

“I’ve admired her, and she so shaped the pathway of my life,” Hoda said with heartfelt gratitude. She explained that watching Sandra Bullock navigate motherhood with such grace and confidence made her realize that adopting children at their age was indeed possible. “I feel like I adopted my kids because I saw that it was possible through her at our same age, and I realized, ‘Wow, it can be done,’” she added.

Read also:
Hoda Kotb Reunites With Ex Joel Schiffman For A Heartwarming Family Gathering

It’s worth noting that Sandra raised her children alongside her late boyfriend Bryan Randall, who tragically passed away in August 2023 at the age of 57 after a private three-year battle with ALS. Bryan’s family shared a poignant statement at the time, honoring his private journey with the disease.

Bryan Randall's Legacy

Bryan Randall’s passing left Sandra devastated, according to sources. As she approaches her 60th birthday, Sandra is reportedly feeling a profound sense of loss and emptiness. Meanwhile, Hoda, who will also turn 60 on August 9, recently announced the end of her engagement to Joel Schiffman in January 2022. Since then, she’s been candid about her dating life and her experiences as a single mom.

Hoda Kotb Says She Was Inspired By Sandra Bullock to Adopt — Courtesy of Hoda Kotb/Instagram

“It’s funny because all my guests have been through hardship of some sort,” Hoda reflected on her podcast. “They have kind of done things against the odds.” She admitted that she’s naturally drawn to people who overcome challenges and inspire others by doing so. Hoda adopted her first daughter, Haley, in 2017, followed by her second daughter, Hope, in 2019, both with Joel Schiffman.

A Journey to Motherhood

Hoda’s journey to motherhood wasn’t always straightforward. After battling breast cancer in 2007, she discovered that conceiving naturally was no longer an option. However, she remained determined to build a family and turned to adoption. Her dreams came true when she welcomed Haley and Hope into her life. “When you’re a mom late in life, you realize the gift it is,” she told People in March 2018. “I’m not saying I wouldn’t have realized it when I was younger, but trust me, when you’re a new mom for the first time at 52, you get on your knees and say thank you. Because you get to do something you didn’t think you had a shot at.”

A Bright Future Ahead

With her career flourishing and her daughters growing up before her eyes, Hoda has much to look forward to in the coming years. She expressed excitement about welcoming Sandra Bullock as a guest on her podcast, which is celebrating its 50th guest, country singer Lainey Wilson, on July 10. “I feel like we would have an instant, beautiful conversation,” Hoda said of Sandra. “She’s a delight. She is honest. She is the next generation of fantastic and unbelievable country music stars.”

Hoda also mentioned Princess Kate Middleton as a dream guest for her podcast. The Princess of Wales, who is currently undergoing preventative chemotherapy, has impressed Hoda with her grace and resilience. “I’ve always thought about her because I feel like she’s full of goodness and grace,” Hoda remarked. “You watch how she’s even handling this chapter of her life and how she’s doing it her way.”