Hoda Kotb Bids Farewell to ‘Today’ Show After Two Decades at NBC

Hoda Kotb, a beloved and familiar face on NBC, is stepping down from her morning role on the “Today” show early next year. After over two decades with the network, Kotb told staffers in a heartfelt memo and later in an emotional on-air announcement Thursday that “it’s time” to turn the page.

Kotb’s decision comes after a milestone 60th birthday this summer, which she said was a turning point. “I saw it all so clearly: my broadcast career has been beyond meaningful, a new decade of my life lies ahead, and now my daughters and my mom need and deserve a bigger slice of my time pie,” she shared in her note.

A Career at NBC

Having joined NBC News in 1998 as a correspondent for Dateline, Kotb became a regular presence on Today in 2007. Since 2018, she has co-anchored the morning show alongside Savannah Guthrie, stepping into the role following Matt Lauer’s departure amid sexual harassment allegations. Kotb has also co-hosted the show’s fourth hour, first with Kathie Lee Gifford and currently with Jenna Bush Hager.

Emotional Announcement

Kotb was visibly emotional during the live segment as she shared her departure with viewers. “This is the hardest thing in the world,” Kotb said, fighting back tears. “I’ve been practicing so I wouldn’t cry, but anyway, I did.”

She was surrounded by her colleagues, including co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, who had a tearful message of her own. “We love you so much,” Guthrie said, her voice breaking. “When you look around and see these tears, they’re love. You are so loved. We don’t want to imagine this place without you.”

In her goodbye note, Kotb expressed her deep affection for her co-workers, referring to Guthrie as her “rock,” Bush Hager as her “ride-or-die,” and long-time friend Al Roker as her “longest friend at 30 Rock.”

Family Comes First

As a devoted mother to two daughters, Haley, 7, and Hope, 5, Kotb explained that her family is now her top priority. She emphasized that she is ready to focus on them and her mother in the years ahead, a decision that many can relate to and understand.

Remaining with NBC

While Kotb is leaving the Today show, she assured fans and colleagues that she will remain with NBC in some capacity, a promise that brings hope and reassurance. “Happily and gratefully, I plan to remain a part of the NBC family, the longest work relationship I’ve been lucky to hold close to my heart. I’ll be around. How could I not? Family is family, and you all will always be a part of mine,” she wrote.

Kotb’s departure marks the end of a significant chapter in morning television, a moment that will be deeply felt by her colleagues, fans, and the NBC community. Still, her presence will undoubtedly be felt at NBC and among the countless viewers who have followed her inspiring journey.