The Heartwarming Reason Hoda Kotb Is Leaving 'Today' After 17 Years
Hoda Kotb, left, and Dylan Dreyer film a live broadcast on the set of the "Today Show" in New York City, Nov. 11, 2022. Photo courtesy of Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Isaac Rodriguez. Public domain.
Hoda Kotb, the beloved co-anchor of NBC's "Today" show, has announced her departure after 17 incredible years. Her decision to leave the iconic morning program has left fans emotional but supportive as they learn more about her next chapter.
Why is Kotb leaving 'Today'?
After almost two decades on "Today," Kotb revealed that her decision to leave stemmed from a desire to focus on personal growth and family time. Shortly after celebrating her 60th birthday, she reassessed her priorities as a mother and announced her departure from the show in September 2024.
Known for her warmth and relatability, she has been a constant presence in viewers' homes, bringing both breaking news and heartfelt stories to the screen. Despite her love for the role, Kotb explained that the demanding schedule left little room for the life she now wants to prioritize, including more time with her two young daughters, Haley Joy and Hope Catherine.
Kotb shared with PEOPLE, "There's the guilt you carry because you can't be 100% at work and 100% at home. Something has to give if you want excellence. If you're going to be excellent at work, something has to give at home. And if you want to be excellent at home, I mean excellent, and do all the things, something has to give at work. It can't be equal." Kotb's heartfelt reflection highlights the universal struggle of balancing career ambitions with the desire to be fully present for family, a decision she approached with honesty and courage.
Kotb is also embracing life in the suburbs of New York after relocating her family from the city in late 2024 — a move she admitted was not an easy decision. She shared her vision of a simpler, more grounded upbringing for her daughters, where they can enjoy outdoor activities like riding bikes, playing in the yard, and running up and down stairs. "I just see that life for them in this perfect house in this beautiful little town where I know they'll be able to blossom into beautiful, independent, strong women," Kotb shared with PEOPLE.
Additionally, her daily routine is undergoing a major shift now that she no longer has to wake up at 3 a.m. for work. She's looking forward to small but meaningful changes, such as attending morning fitness classes, sharing breakfast with her kids, and walking them to school. Kotb described these moments as "small but amazing" and a key part of the life she envisions for her family, according to Forbes.
What's next for Kotb?
Kotb also plans to embark on new professional ventures centered around wellness. She shared her excitement about launching a wellness app and company that will include retreats, a podcast, and other initiatives designed to bring people together to enjoy activities she loves.
When was her last day?
Hoda Kotb's last day on "Today" was Jan. 10, 2025. NBC celebrated her departure with a special weeklong tribute, aptly named the "Hoda-bration," honoring her remarkable career and impact on the show. The send-off featured heartfelt messages from colleagues, fans, and celebrity guests, ensuring her final week was as memorable as her 17 years on the program. Kotb's farewell week kicked off with a heartwarming surprise by her co-anchor Jenna Bush Hager, and 70 of her Tri Delt sorority sisters appeared live on the plaza to celebrate her journey.
Additionally, Kotb received a personalized painting from Charlie Mackesy, the celebrated author of "The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse," one of her favorite books. She was deeply moved by both the gift and a recorded message from Mackesy, describing his work as "life-changing," as reported by Forbes. The surprises highlighted the deep affection and respect her colleagues and fans have for her.
As Kotb bids farewell to her "Today" family, she leaves behind a legacy of empathy, resilience, and inspiration. Fans can look forward to seeing how her next ventures unfold and how she continues to touch lives beyond the "Today" show.
References: When Is Hoda Kotb's Last Day on Today? Why the Longtime Host Is Saying Goodbye to the Morning Show — and What She's Doing Next | When Is Hoda Kotb's Last Day On 'Today?' Why She's Leaving After 17 Years
