There’s no denying that motherhood has been nothing short of a joyous journey for Hoda Kotb. Since welcoming her first child, Haley, through adoption at the age of 52, she’s embraced every moment with love and purpose. The beloved Today show host recently opened up about her decision to become a mom later in life, sharing her thoughts during a heartfelt conversation on the show.
Hoda Kotb Reflects on Motherhood After Reading Sienna Miller’s Interview
During an episode of Today on Thursday, December 14, Hoda, now 59, took a moment to reflect on her journey as a parent. Her reflection was sparked by reading a recent Vogue interview with actress Sienna Miller, who is expecting her second child. Sienna, 41, discussed how she often feels the need to make light of her age when talking about having children later in life. “I’d love to get to a point where I didn’t feel the need to make a joke of being older and having a baby,” Sienna shared. “To show I’m in on the joke.”
Hoda’s Perspective: Owning the Journey
Hoda resonated deeply with Sienna’s sentiments, acknowledging that many people feel the need to preemptively address potential judgment by making jokes about their own circumstances. “I think a lot of people do that,” she explained. “You want to beat them to the punch, so you make the joke first. Maybe you’re an older mom, or if you feel heavy, you make the joke about it.” She then shared a personal anecdote, recalling, “I was always a fat kid. That’s the joke you make so no one else can.”
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For Hoda, however, motherhood has been a source of immense fulfillment, and she feels no shame about becoming a mom in her 50s. “I am so happy and fulfilled with my decision,” she said. “I don’t feel any ounce of regret or shame about it.” Her confidence and joy in her role as a parent shine through in every word she speaks.
Jenna Bush Hager Weighs In
Hoda’s cohost, Jenna Bush Hager, chimed in with words of support during their candid discussion. “Hoda doesn’t feel like she needs a joke,” Jenna, 42, said. “Because she’s so delighted by her kids that when you lead with delight, guess what follows? Delight! When you lead with enthusiasm—and this applies to everything—people respond with enthusiasm.” Jenna’s insight highlights the infectious positivity Hoda brings to her life as a mom.
Hoda shares her daughters, Haley and Hope, with her ex-fiancé Joel Schiffman, whom she split from in January 2022 after eight years together. Even though their romantic relationship ended, they remain committed co-parents. Hoda announced their breakup on Today, saying, “Joel and I have had a lot of prayerful and meaningful conversations over the holidays, and we decided that we’re better as friends and parents than we are as an engaged couple. So, we decided we are going to start this new year … on our new path as loving parents to our adorable, delightful children, and as friends.”
Despite the split, Hoda and Joel continue to work together seamlessly as parents. In October, they reunited to take Haley, 6, and Hope, 4, trick-or-treating, proving that their bond as parents remains strong.
Hoda’s Legacy as a Mom
Jenna praised Hoda for her unwavering confidence in her role as a mom, noting, “I love that you’re totally secure in it.” Hoda later described adopting her two girls as “the best decisions I’ve ever made.” Her journey as a mom serves as a powerful reminder that there’s no one-size-fits-all path to parenthood. What matters most is the love, joy, and fulfillment that come from building a family in your own unique way.
