Hoda Kotb, a long-standing face on NBC's "Today," announced her departure after nearly two decades on the show.
In pursuit of a more family-oriented lifestyle, Hoda Kotb chose to leave "Today" to focus on her role as a mother to her two daughters, inspired by her former co-host Kathie Lee Gifford's fulfilling post-retirement life, as reported by the Daily Mail.
Hoda Kotb's journey with the "Today" show began almost 20 years ago, making her one of the most familiar and beloved figures in morning television. Over the years, she expanded her role, and her presence became a staple of American morning routines.
During her tenure, she notably co-hosted with Kathie Lee Gifford, forming a dynamic duo well-received for its chemistry and warmth. Gifford's departure in 2019 marked a significant shift in the show's dynamic for Kotb.
Insiders noted that while Hoda enjoyed working with her current co-host Jenna Bush Hager, she did not fully replicate the unique synergy she shared with Gifford. Viewers echoed this sentiment, and Kotb herself felt it deeply. According to insiders, "It was never really the same after Kathie Lee left – they had the best chemistry together on the show."
Kathie Lee Gifford's life after "Today" inspired Kotb as she engaged in various personal and creative endeavors, including writing a play, authoring books, and starring in a movie. Gifford's enriched personal life, complete with a new romantic relationship, exemplified a successful transition away from the daily grind of morning TV.
Motivated by Gifford's narrative, Kotb sought similar enrichment in her own life, focusing particularly on her family. Her shift in priorities became more urgent following a health scare with her younger daughter, Hope, who spent significant time in the ICU and hospital in 2023.
An insider highlighted the situation's gravity, stating, "With Hope's health issues, Hoda cannot take a backseat to parenting any longer. Nothing in the universe is, or ever will be, more important to Hoda than her role as a mother."
Reflecting on her shifting priorities, Kotb made a significant lifestyle change by moving her family to the suburbs of New York City. This move aimed to provide her daughters with a calming and nurturing environment, contrasting the bustling city life.
"It’s all new — new kids, new school, new things, new everything. And it’s funny because all I could think of was I wanted my house for the kids to feel warm and cozy and a place where they want to hang out. And that’s it," Kotb reflected.
This relocation symbolized her commitment to being more present in her daughters' lives, a resolve that personal experiences and observations of Gifford's life post-retirement strengthened.
While Kotb is stepping back from her daily responsibilities on "Today," she is not leaving her professional life entirely. In fact, reports suggest that she has received offers for opportunities that can customize around her new schedule, prioritizing her presence with her family.
"Obviously I had my kiddos late in life and I think that they deserve a bigger piece of my time pie, we only have an infinite amount of time," Kotb explained during her on-air announcement, emphasizing the finite nature of time and her desire to allocate more of it to her family life.
Moreover, her upcoming departure from the daily broadcast doesn’t mean she is saying a complete farewell to NBC. Kotb will remain part of the NBC family through early 2025, contributing in ways yet to be announced and ensuring her continued connection to her professional community.
Insiders report that her peers and the network have met the decision with comprehensive support. "There is no amount of money in the world that NBC could have offered to make her change her mind. Everyone fully understands and is supportive," one insider noted.
This understanding, therefore, stems from their recognition of Kotb's immense contribution to the show over the years and their respect for her decision to prioritize her children's needs and personal well-being.
Consequently, Hoda Kotb's departure from the "Today" show marks the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter focused on personal growth and family time. Her poignant decision opens the door to new possibilities for her and her family, as she concludes her longstanding role with grace and the support of her long-time colleagues and viewers.
