Hoda Kotb bids a tearful goodbye to "Today," reminiscing on her remarkable tenure and cherished moments.
Hoda Kotb's final day as a co-anchor on NBC's long-running morning show, Today, arrives on Friday. She's been a staple of the team since 2007, starting as a co-host in the final hour with Kathie Lee Gifford in 2008. In 2018, Kotb was promoted to co-anchor, sharing the morning news duties with Savannah Guthrie.
Kotb announced her departure last year, and this week, fans have gathered outside the Today studios to show their love and bid farewell with signs. Kotb has continued to host the third hour of Today with Jenna Bush Hager. During her tenure, she's left a legacy filled with a mix of hard and soft news, from insightful interviews to hilarious moments with her co-hosts.
The Reason Behind Hoda Kotb's Departure
Kotb, a dedicated single mother, is choosing to dedicate more time to her two adopted daughters, Haley Joy, born in 2017, and Hope Catherine, born in 2019. The demanding Today schedule, with early morning appearances, is a significant factor in her decision.
Finding a New Co-Anchor
NBC has yet to name a direct replacement for Kotb, allowing a comfortable transition between her departure and the introduction of a new host. In the interim, Today will feature a revolving cast of celebrity guests like Taraji P. Henson, Eva Longoria, and Keke Palmer, filling in for Kotb alongside Bush Hager. Craig Melvin will also step in as a co-anchor during this period.
Top 7 Unforgettable Moments from Hoda Kotb's Time on Today
- Hoda and Jenna's Polar Plunge: In 2022, Kotb and Bush Hager took a chilly dip, live on camera, leading to an amusing reaction.
- "Pink Power" Interviews: Kotb was passionate about raising breast cancer awareness through her "Pink Power" segments. In a poignant moment, she interviewed the family of Erin Ludwig, a cancer survivor who passed away shortly after the interview.
- Viola Davis Interview: Kotb was star-struck during her interview with Viola Davis, the multi-talented EGOT winner.
- Wine Spill: When the cameras returned from a commercial break in 2012, Kotb was covered in wine after a glass shattered during the break. Gifford jokingly said she felt mostly sorry for the spilled wine!
- Guthrie and Kotb's First Episode: Their immediate chemistry, despite what came before, was evident in their first episode together, as Guthrie warmly referred to Kotb as a sister and friend.
- Kotb Announces Adoption of First Daughter: In 2017, Kotb broke the news on air that she had adopted her first daughter, leaving many with tears in their eyes.
- Drew Brees Donation Announcement: Kotb became emotional behind the desk as she announced former New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees' generous $5 million donation to combat Covid-19 in Louisiana, a place dear to Kotb's heart.
Best moments from Hoda Kotb's time on Today include her Polar Plunge with Jenna Bush Hager, passionate "Pink Power" interviews, star-struck encounter with Viola Davis, wine spill incident, heartfelt first episode with Savannah Guthrie, adoption announcement of first daughter, and emotional Covid-19 donation announcement.
Who is replacing Hoda Kotb on Today is still unclear as NBC has yet to name a direct replacement, allowing a smooth transition with celebrity guests filling in, such as Taraji P. Henson, Eva Longoria, and Keke Palmer, as well as Craig Melvin stepping in as a co-anchor.
Hoda Kotb's best work on Today was showcased during her tenure since 2007, starting as a co-host with Kathie Lee Gifford in 2008, becoming a co-anchor with Savannah Guthrie in 2018, and leaving a lasting impact with her mix of hard and soft news, insightful interviews, and hilarious moments with her co-hosts.
Friday marks Hoda Kotb's last day on Today, and fans have gathered outside the studios to show their love and bid farewell with signs. Despite her departure, Hoda Kotb will remain a staple in NBC's morning show as the host of the third hour with Jenna Bush Hager.
Despite choosing to dedicate more time to her two adopted daughters, Hoda Kotb's best hoda kotb today on Today will always be remembered for her dedication, hard work, and remarkable ability to connect with both her co-hosts and the audience.
