On Monday, June 24, Hoda Kotb couldn’t help but get emotional during a heartfelt segment of Today featuring Jennifer Garner and her mom, Patricia English Garner. The conversation was raw, touching, and full of life lessons that resonated deeply with everyone involved.
An Emotional Conversation About Loss and Strength
Hoda Kotb, known for her empathetic interviewing style, was visibly moved during the segment. At 59 years old, Hoda found herself wiping away tears while speaking with Patricia, who is 86, about the recent passing of her husband, William Garner. It wasn’t just a casual chat—it was an intimate moment that brought the reality of grief into focus.
During the episode, Hoda expressed admiration for Patricia's resilience after losing her husband. "Another thing we admire about you is your husband passed a little while ago, and I can only imagine how hard it must have been to get out of bed each day," Hoda said. "But one day, you just decided, 'Today's the day.'"
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Patricia's Powerful Epiphany
Patricia responded with grace and wisdom, sharing a pivotal moment in her journey through grief. "I pretty much decided, even before he passed, that I would be okay," she revealed. "I was so worried about becoming a widow, but one day, I had an epiphany: 'You will be alright.' And you know what? I really have been alright." Her words were heartfelt, and Hoda couldn't help but wipe a tear from her eye as she listened intently.
Patricia also mentioned how much she wished she could share the news of being on the Today show with her late husband. It was a bittersweet reflection that added depth to the conversation.
Jennifer Garner Joins the Conversation
Jennifer Garner, too, was visibly emotional as she recalled memories of her own late father. The Family Switch actress spoke candidly about her dad's passing, which she announced on social media earlier that April. In a heartfelt tribute, she wrote, "My dad passed peacefully Saturday afternoon. We were with him, singing Amazing Grace as he left us." She went on to reflect on the inevitability of grief, even in the face of a long and fulfilling life.
"Today is for gratitude," Jennifer wrote in her post. "We are grateful for Dad's gentle demeanor and quiet strength. For how he teased with a mischievous smile, and for the way he invented the role of all-in, ever-patient girl dad." Her tribute highlighted not only her father's character but also the impact he had on those around him.
During the segment, Jennifer revealed that her father was "surrounded by his daughters and grandchildren" at the time of his passing. She emphasized the importance of honoring his memory and legacy. "There is so much to say about my dad," she shared. "My sisters and I will never be done talking about how wonderful he was, but today I share these memories with my appreciation for the kind and brilliant man, father, and grandfather he was, as well as the loving legacy he left behind."
Hoda's Tribute to Jennifer's Words
Hoda praised Jennifer's tribute to her father, acknowledging its impact. "Oh yeah, I mean, how lucky to grow up with parents like yours," Hoda remarked. Jennifer echoed this sentiment, expressing gratitude for her upbringing. "I’ve always been aware of it, my sisters and I are... we're always really aware," she said.
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Jennifer also took the opportunity to celebrate her mother, Patricia, for her influence in her life. "I mean, I have a pretty special mom," Jennifer said. "She’s not judgmental of people or things that happen to you. She has a gift for seeing what people need and quietly taking care of them." Patricia chimed in, adding, "I do not believe in guilt. Guilt is a useless emotion."
