Hoda Kotb Announces Departure from TODAY

Hoda Kotb Will Stay with NBC Family

A Birthday Reflection Sparks a Major Life Decision

Hoda Kotb recently announced that she will be leaving TODAY early next year, though she will remain part of the NBC family in a new, undisclosed role. Her emotional decision came after celebrating her 60th birthday in August, a milestone that led her to reassess her life and career.

“It’s Time to Turn the Page”

Reflecting on the moment, Hoda tearfully explained, “I realized it was time to turn the page at 60 and try something new. I remember standing outside, looking at this beautiful crowd with their gorgeous signs, and thinking, ‘This is what the top of the wave feels like for me.’ It felt like the perfect time to move forward.”

Prioritizing Time with Her Daughters

One of the key factors in Hoda’s decision was her desire to spend more time with her daughters, Haley, 7, and Hope, 5.

“I had my kiddos later in life, and they deserve more of my time,” she said. “We only have a finite amount of time, and that thought has been heavy on my heart.”

“This is the Hardest Thing”

Hoda spoke candidly about the emotional toll of her decision, adding, “This is the hardest thing in the world for me, but it feels right.” Despite stepping down from TODAY, Hoda reassured viewers that she will remain in the NBC family and stay with the show through early next year.

A Career at NBC Spanning Nearly Three Decades

Hoda’s announcement marks the end of an era for TODAY, where she has been a prominent figure for nearly 30 years. She began her career at NBC working for Dateline and later co-hosted TODAY’s fourth hour with Kathie Lee Gifford, followed by Jenna Bush Hager. For the past five years, Hoda has co-anchored TODAY alongside Savannah Guthrie.

An Outpouring of Love from the TODAY Family

Savannah Guthrie delivered a heartfelt tribute to Hoda, saying, “We love you so much. It’s hard to imagine this place without you. You’re leaving at the top of your game, which takes such courage. You’re an inspiration, and I am so proud of you.”

Jenna Bush Hager jokingly promised to continue showing up in Hoda’s life, saying, “I’m going to be at your doorstep like the stalker you are to Zac Brown. We’re friends for life.”

Colleagues Reflect on Hoda’s Impact

Sheinelle Jones and Al Roker also shared touching words. Sheinelle praised Hoda as a “dynamic mom” with a presence that will leave a lasting mark, while Al Roker, one of Hoda’s oldest friends at NBC, said, “I’ve known you forever, and I’ve never met anyone like you. I love you.”

Craig Melvin highlighted Hoda’s authenticity, saying, “You’re the same off-camera as you are on. You’ve been the heart of this show, and no one can replace that.”

A Legacy That Will Continue

In her farewell, Hoda reflected on the relationships she has built with her colleagues and the TODAY fans who gather daily at Rockefeller Plaza. She also sent a letter to the TODAY staff on Sept. 26, expressing her gratitude for their unwavering support throughout her career.

While Hoda Kotb’s departure from TODAY is bittersweet, her legacy at NBC will endure, and her next chapter is poised to be just as inspiring as the one she’s leaving behind.

Hoda Kotb Will Stay with NBC Family

Hoda Kotb has revealed she will be leaving TODAY early next year but will remain part of the NBC family in a new role. Her decision came after reflecting on her 60th birthday in August, prompting her to seek a new chapter in life.

“I realized it was time to turn the page at 60 and try something new,” Hoda said, adding that she wants to spend more time with her daughters, Haley, 7, and Hope, 5.

Hoda’s departure marks the end of nearly 30 years with NBC, where she worked on Dateline and co-anchored TODAY with Savannah Guthrie. Her colleagues praised her bravery and authenticity during an emotional farewell.

Though stepping down from TODAY, Hoda will stay with the NBC family, marking the beginning of a new chapter in her career.