Hoda Kotb's departure from the Today Show marks the end of her notable career at NBC, spanning nearly three decades.
On September 2024, Kotb made headlines when she announced her decision to leave the prominent morning show, which has long been part of American culture. "I realized it was time for me to turn the page at 60, and to try something new. This is the right time for me to move on," she stated during her final days on the show.
Having co-hosted Today alongside Savannah Guthrie following Matt Lauer’s exit, Kotb reflected on the tenured experience she gained at NBC. She began her career as a correspondent for Dateline and later took on various roles at Today, including co-hosting the fourth hour of the show starting in 2007.
Her announcement was emotional not only for her but for the viewers and colleagues who watched her grow over the years. Kotb mentioned her daughters, Haley and Hope, born when she was older, as key motivators for her decision. "I feel like they deserve a bigger piece of my time pie," she shared, expressing concern about the finite time she has with them.
"I will miss each and every one of you at Today desperately," Kotb said, leaving viewers with sentiments of both gratitude and longing. Her heartfelt farewell encapsulated years of shared experiences and friendships made during her time at NBC.
When speaking about her departure, Guthrie mentioned, "Hoda and I have had this discussion for years and years... It makes a lot of sense to me what she has decided," showcasing the close bond shared between the two co-hosts.
Though fans were sad to see her go, Kotb reassured them she wouldn’t be leaving NBC entirely. "My time at NBC has been the longest professional love affair of my life, but only because you’ve been beside me on this 26-year adventure. Looking back, the math is nuts!".
Kotb's last day was marked by celebrations, including the week-long "Hoda-bration" honoring her contributions. During the farewell, she praised her colleagues and reflected on her relationships at NBC. "Savannah: my rock. Jenna: my ride-or-die," she expressed, highlighting the importance of these friendships throughout her career.
After Kotb's exit, Craig Melvin stepped up as her replacement on the NBC program, bringing fresh energy to the show. Viewing audiences have now taken to social media to share their fond memories of Kotb over the years, with comments expressing their deep love and admiration for her work.
Hoda Kotb's career at NBC is marked not just by her professional accomplishments but also by the personal connections she formed. from sharing emotional stories on air to crafting memorable moments alongside her co-hosts, she became synonymous with morning television.
Kotb's career is filled with notable highlights, but it is perhaps her warmth and relatability as a host during poignant family moments and interviews, alongside her co-hosts, which made her simply unforgettable.
Looking forward, Kotb has hinted at new projects on the horizon. On February 5, 2025, she teased her next big collaboration on Instagram, sharing images with Joanna Gaines. "Remember I was talking about repotting — gotta take first steps. We have something fun cooking! Come along on the great adventure. Stay tuned," she wrote, indicating exciting new ventures await.
Fans can anticipate more from Kotb as she reshapes her career and focuses on family. Her heartfelt dedication to both her professional and personal life forms the legacy she leaves behind at NBC. Whatever her next project may be, it’s clear her significant impact on morning television will not soon be forgotten.
Kotb's departure reminds us of the importance of family and pursuing new chapters in life, leaving fans with well-wishes for what lies ahead for this beloved TV personality.