After nearly two decades as a key anchor on NBC’s Today show, Hoda Kotb has announced her decision to step away from her anchoring duties, sharing an emotional farewell letter to staff on Thursday, Sept. 26.
“As I write this, my heart is all over the map,” Kotb expressed in the heartfelt note. “I know I’m making the right decision, but it’s a painful one. And you all are the reason why. They say two things can be true at the same time, and I’m feeling that deeply. I love you, and it’s time for me to leave the show.”
Explaining her decision further, the 59-year-old journalist noted that while her career has been incredibly fulfilling, it’s time for her to prioritize family. “A new decade of my life lies ahead, and my daughters and my mom need a bigger slice of my time pie. I will miss you all desperately, but I’m ready and excited for what’s next.”
Although Kotb will continue in her current role until the start of 2025, she assured fans and colleagues that she won’t be leaving NBC entirely. “Happily and gratefully, I plan to remain part of the NBC family, the longest work relationship I’ve been lucky enough to hold close to my heart.”
She added, “I’ll be around. How could I not? Family is family, and you all will always be a part of mine.”
Kotb, alongside co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, made history as the first all-female duo to helm the popular morning program. She also co-hosts the fourth hour of Today alongside Jenna Bush Hager, having first joined the segment back in 2007.
In January 2018, Kotb was named co-anchor of Today, stepping into the role after Matt Lauer’s exit amid sexual misconduct allegations.
Over the years, Kotb has been open about her personal life, including her journey to motherhood. After a breast cancer diagnosis in 2007 rendered her unable to conceive, Kotb adopted her first daughter, Haley Joy, in 2017. Her family grew once again in 2019 with the adoption of her second daughter, Hope Catherine, whom she shares with ex-fiancé Joel Schiffman.
Recently, Kotb and her daughters moved from Manhattan to the suburbs, where 7-year-old Haley and 4-year-old Hope now have their own rooms. Kotb described the move as a significant transition, both for her and her girls. “It’s all new—new kids, new school, new everything. I want my house to be a warm, cozy place where they feel safe and happy,” she shared.
She also opened up about her desire for her daughters to experience a more suburban lifestyle, saying, “I want my kids to feel grass on their feet, play in the yard, ride bikes, and just enjoy the simple things.”
The move comes at a time when Kotb’s family has been adjusting to Hope’s ongoing health challenges. While Kotb has chosen not to disclose the specifics of her daughter’s diagnosis, she has remained steadfast in ensuring a sense of normalcy for her vibrant child. “It’s tricky because I don’t want Hope to get labeled,” Kotb explained. “Most days, everything is totally fine, and I don’t want people to look at her differently.”
While Kotb navigates this next chapter of her life, her legacy at Today and within NBC News remains undeniable. As she embarks on her new journey, she leaves behind an indelible mark on morning television that will be remembered for years to come.