Hoda Kotb, who many love as a co-anchor on NBC’s Today show, has some big news—she plans to step down in early 2025. She made this heartfelt announcement during a special segment of the show on September 26, 2024. Hoda talked about how her life has changed and what comes next for her. This news comes just as she celebrates her 60th birthday, which has made her rethink her priorities and what she wants to do with her moving forward.
Hoda described saying goodbye to Today as “the hardest thing in the world.” Turning 60 last August was a big moment for her. She felt it was time to “turn the page” & try something new. She also mentioned that she wants to spend more time with her two young daughters, Haley (7) & Hope (5), whom she adopted with her ex-fiancé, Joel Schiffman. Hoda said that her kids deserve a “bigger piece of my time pie.” That thought played a huge role in her decision.
Even though Hoda won’t be leaving Today right away—she’s going to stay until early 2025—the news has already touched the hearts of her colleagues & fans. Savannah Guthrie, who has been Hoda’s co-anchor since 2018, held back tears and said, “We love you so much… and we don’t want to imagine this place without you.” Many people feel the same way because Hoda has been such an important part of the show for 17 years!
Hoda’s career at NBC goes back more than 20 years. She joined NBC News in 1998 as a correspondent for Dateline, covering major stories around the world. Then, in 2007, she began hosting the fourth hour of Today with Kathie Lee Gifford & later with Jenna Bush Hager. In 2018, Hoda became co-anchor for the main hours of the show after Matt Lauer was let go in 2017 due to serious allegations. Her steady & warm presence helped keep the show’s popularity strong during that tricky time.
Besides being an amazing host, Hoda is also a symbol of strength & hope. She’s been very open about personal struggles like overcoming breast cancer in 2007. Her journey, along with her experiences with adoption, has inspired many viewers who see her as a role model.
Although she’s leaving Today, Hoda hinted this isn’t goodbye forever. She will still be part of NBC in some way—but details are still under wraps. As she gets ready for this next chapter, Hoda leaves behind a legacy filled with kindness, professionalism, and a real bond with her audience.
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