Hoda Kotb, a longtime co-anchor of NBC's Today show, announced her decision to leave the program early next year, marking a significant shift in the landscape of one of America's most popular morning shows. After more than 25 years at NBC News, Kotb revealed her plans to step away from the anchor desk, a decision she described as one of the hardest she has ever made.
"It was time for me to turn the page at 60," Kotb said tearfully during her Thursday morning broadcast, surrounded by her co-hosts. "I had my kiddos late in life, and I realized they deserve a bigger piece of my time pie." Kotb, who adopted two daughters, Haley Joy in 2017 and Hope Catherine in 2019, spoke candidly about her desire to focus more on family as she enters a new chapter of her life.
Kotb first joined NBC in 1998, working as a correspondent for Dateline, and later became a fixture of the network's morning lineup. She initially co-hosted the 10 a.m. hour of Today alongside Kathie Lee Gifford, beginning in 2008. Her easygoing rapport with Gifford helped solidify the fourth hour of Today as a fan favorite. After Gifford's departure in 2019, Kotb continued to co-host the hour with Jenna Bush Hager. Her partnership with Savannah Guthrie on the main morning broadcast began in 2017 after the high-profile departure of Matt Lauer.
Savannah Guthrie, her longtime co-anchor, expressed deep emotion upon hearing the news. "We love you so much, and honestly, I don't think any of us can imagine this place without you," Guthrie said on-air. "You have so much guts to leave at the top of your game, where it's comfortable and wonderful, and that inspires me."
Though Kotb will be stepping down from her daily hosting duties, she assured viewers and her team that she will remain part of the NBC family. Specific details about her new role at the network have not yet been disclosed, but Kotb hinted at continuing contributions in some capacity. NBC confirmed that her departure from Today does not signify a full exit from the network, leaving room for potential future projects.
Over the years, Kotb has become one of NBC's most beloved faces, known for her warmth, relatability, and deep connection with both her co-workers and viewers. Her time at the network has been marked by major milestones, from covering breaking news to hosting Today during significant moments in national history. In an emotional memo to the Today staff, Kotb reflected on her tenure. "So many of my professional relationships have become some of my most cherished friendships. Savannah: my rock. Jenna: my ride-or-die. Al: my longest friend at 30 Rock," she wrote.
The question of who will fill Kotb's shoes remains open. NBC has not yet named a replacement for Kotb's roles on both the main morning show and the fourth hour. As the network weighs its options, viewers will be watching closely to see how one of the longest-running programs on television adapts to this significant change.
Kotb's departure will undoubtedly mark the end of an era for Today. Her ability to connect with audiences, whether discussing personal challenges or national news, has made her a fixture in millions of homes each morning. In her closing remarks on Thursday's broadcast, Kotb expressed her gratitude: "I've been lifted up by all of you and inspired every single day." She added, "I'm ready to embrace this next chapter with everything I've got."
As she looks ahead to 2025 and beyond, Kotb's departure also signals a shift in the dynamic at NBC. The network, which has seen high-profile exits in recent years, is poised for further evolution as it navigates Kotb's transition and the broader media landscape.
