Beloved Today Show host Hoda Kotb has been showered with love and support after announcing her departure from the iconic NBC morning show. After 17 years on the program, Kotb, 60, tearfully shared her decision to leave in a heartfelt letter to the show, followed by an emotional on-air address to viewers. Surrounded by her colleagues, including Al Roker, Craig Melvin, Jenna Bush Hager, Savannah Guthrie, and Sheinelle Jones, Kotb opened up about the reasons behind her decision.
In a behind-the-scenes video that has gone viral on X (formerly known as Twitter), Kotb is seen receiving a standing ovation from her Today Show colleagues. The heartwarming moment was captioned by the show: “We love you so very much, Hoda! 🧡,” with the orange heart emoji symbolizing the warmth and affection her colleagues and fans feel for her.
Hoda Kotb has announced that she is leaving TODAY early next year. pic.twitter.com/sXuRsDbNnI
— TODAY (@TODAYshow) September 26, 2024
Kotb, visibly moved by the support, shared how turning 60 earlier this year prompted her to reassess her life and career. The milestone birthday, she said, inspired her to “turn a page” and pursue something new, with her family being the driving factor behind her decision.
“I had my kiddos later in life, and I was thinking that they deserve a bigger piece of my time pie that I have,” she tearfully explained. “I feel like we only have a finite amount of time. And so, with all that being said, this is the hardest thing in the world.”
Though stepping away from the show was an incredibly difficult decision, Kotb assured viewers that she would remain a part of the NBC family. “I’m gonna be here through the first of the year — past the first of the year — and I’m gonna stay in the NBC family, but it’s kind of a big deal for me,” she added, fighting back tears.
The news of Kotb’s departure has stirred emotions not just among her Today Show colleagues but also across her vast fanbase, who have grown to admire her warmth, authenticity, and dedication over the years. As Kotb embarks on this new chapter, her fans and peers are undoubtedly rooting for her success in whatever lies ahead.
With her departure set for early next year, Kotb will be missed on morning television, but her legacy on Today will remain, as will the love and admiration of her millions of fans.