On Monday, August 7, the Today show underwent yet another hosting shuffle, following an eventful summer of changes. Viewers noticed the absence of beloved co-hosts Al Roker and Hoda Kotb, who were both replaced due to significant developments in their personal lives. It was a day filled with lighthearted jokes and heartfelt wishes for the hosts who took a well-deserved break.
Hoda Kotb’s Heartfelt Support for Simone Biles
Over the weekend, Hoda Kotb, the ever-supportive 58-year-old co-host, showed her admiration for Simone Biles on Instagram. Simone, the legendary gymnast, made a triumphant return to competitive gymnastics at the Core Hydration Classic. Hoda’s absence from the show didn’t go unnoticed, and Savannah Guthrie humorously chimed in with her thoughts. "Hoda’s got the morning off — she’s probably at Simone’s house right now just being like 'Go Simone!'" Savannah joked, giving fans a glimpse into Hoda's passionate spirit.
Craig Melvin Steps In for Hoda
With Hoda taking a break, Craig Melvin stepped into the spotlight, filling in for her during her usual segments. As the episode unfolded, Savannah revealed that Hoda has exciting plans lined up for the week leading up to her 59th birthday on Wednesday, August 9. "We’ve got Hoda off this week — it’s her birthday this week by the way," Savannah explained with a warm smile, ensuring fans were in the loop about Hoda's special week ahead.
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A New Chapter: Hoda’s Children’s Book
Hoda's absence came just days after she announced her new children’s book, Hope Is A Rainbow, set to release in March 2024. The book draws inspiration from the incredible resilience of her youngest daughter, Hope. Speaking about the project, Hoda shared, "My daughter Hope is so inspiring to me. She’s a little child, but with a real kind of old spirit, an old soul. There’s something about her in how she sees magic in everything." It’s clear that Hoda’s admiration for her daughter is boundless, and this book serves as a testament to that love.
Earlier this year, Hoda took time off from the Today show when her daughter Hope, then 4, was hospitalized in the ICU. After a week-long hospitalization, Hoda returned to the show on March 6, sharing an emotional update about her daughter's health. "She is back home," Hoda joyfully announced. "I was waiting for that day to come. And we are watching her closely. I’m just so happy." Her resilience and dedication to her family have always been inspiring to watch.
Al Roker’s Busy Schedule
The hosts didn’t immediately explain Al Roker’s sudden absence from the Today show, but his recent Instagram posts hinted that he might be out of town. Just before his disappearance from the show, the 68-year-old weatherman presented the film he executive produced, Gaining Ground: The Fight for Black Land, at Martha’s Vineyard Performing Arts Center in Massachusetts. The film premiere wasn’t the only highlight for Al recently. He also celebrated his granddaughter Sky turning one month old. Sky, born to Al’s daughter Courtney Roker and her husband Wesley Laga on July 3, has already captured the hearts of many. "My little Sky [is] not so happy about the photo shoot Mom and Dad set up," Al joked, sharing a picture of his grandchild crying. It’s moments like these that remind us of Al’s playful and loving nature.
Dylan Dreyer Takes Over Weather Duties
With Al taking a break, Dylan Dreyer stepped in to handle weather forecasting duties on the morning talk show. Sheinelle Jones was also absent from Monday’s episode, prompting NBC’s Jacob Soboroff to step in as a fill-in host to cover all the absences. Despite the changes, the show continued to deliver its usual warmth and charm, proving that the Today show family always has each other’s backs.
