Image Credit-x.com/HodaAndJenna
Hoda Kotb, a beloved face on NBC’s Today Show, announced her departure after 17 years. In a heartfelt moment on September 26, 2024, the 60-year-old host revealed that she would be stepping down in early 2025 to spend more time with her family. Kotb’s exit, which brought both her and co-host Jenna Bush Hager to tears, marks the end of an era for Today with Hoda & Jenna. However, Kotb has assured fans that her connection to the NBC family will remain intact.
An Emotional On-Air Announcement
Kotb’s departure was officially shared on Today during an emotional segment with co-hosts Al Roker, Craig Melvin, Savannah Guthrie, Sheinelle Jones, and Jenna Bush Hager. Wiping away tears, Kotb explained her decision to leave, emphasizing that her family, particularly her daughters and mother, now needed more of her time. “My daughters and my mom need and deserve a bigger slice of my time pie,” she shared, reflecting on her reasons for leaving.
Jenna Bush Hager, visibly moved by the announcement, praised Kotb for her unwavering support and friendship over their five-year run together on the 3rd hour of Today. In a teary-eyed moment, she thanked Kotb for her belief in her, recalling how Kotb had invited her to co-host the show. “You are who believed in me first,” Bush Hager said, adding how Kotb had been a mentor from the start.
Kotb Celebrates Her Co-Host and Future Success
As the segment continued, Kotb took the opportunity to celebrate her co-host, telling Bush Hager that she is more than ready to take the helm after her departure. Kotb expressed her confidence in Bush Hager’s future role, saying, “Whoever sits in this seat is going to have the easiest job in the world because they’re sitting next to you.” The two women shared a poignant moment as they reflected on their strong bond, both personally and professionally.
Bush Hager also lightened the mood by recalling a conversation with her father, former President George W. Bush. She joked that when she asked him for advice on working alongside Kotb, he told her, “Hoda’s the star…. You’re gonna be okay with that, right?”
A Legacy That Lives On
Despite her departure from Today, Kotb assured fans that she will continue to be part of the NBC family, the network where she built her career. “Happily and gratefully, I plan to remain a part of the NBC family,” Kotb said. She described the network as “the longest work relationship I’ve been lucky enough to hold close to my heart” and assured her colleagues and viewers that she would “be around.”
As she prepares to enter the next chapter of her life, Kotb looks forward to dedicating more time to her family while cherishing the incredible memories she created over nearly two decades on the Today Show. Though her presence will be missed, her legacy of warmth, positivity, and professionalism will undoubtedly continue to inspire viewers and her NBC colleagues alike.
FAQs About Hoda Kotb
Q: Why is Hoda Kotb leaving the Today Show?
A: Kotb is leaving the show to spend more time with her daughters and mother, stating that her family needs more of her time.
Q: When is Hoda Kotb leaving Today?
A: Kotb will remain on the *Today Show* until early 2025.
Q: Will Hoda Kotb still be part of NBC?
A: Yes, she plans to remain part of the NBC family and will continue to have some role within the network.
Q: How long has Hoda Kotb been with Today?
A: Kotb has been with the *Today Show* for 17 years, making a significant impact during her time on the show.