Hoda Kotb is embracing the spirit of Mardi Gras and proving that she can’t stay away from her Today show family for too long. 

Less than two months after bidding farewell to the NBC morning show following nearly 17 years on air, 

Kotb made a special video appearance on February 28, adding a touch of excitement to the live broadcast.

A Surprise for Her Former Co-Hosts

As the Today team reported live from the streets of New Orleans to celebrate the upcoming Mardi Gras festivities, longtime meteorologist Al Roker hinted at a special guest. 

“Before we go any further, I think we’ve got a very special person who knows this city well,” Roker teased. 

Moments later, a video featuring Kotb played, much to the surprise of her former colleagues Craig Melvin and Dylan Dreyer.

Appearing full of energy and excitement, Kotb jokingly expressed her disbelief that her Today co-stars were in “her city” without her. “Hey guys, wait a minute, are you in my city? Without me?” she playfully scolded. “Okay, Al, Craig, Dylan, you guys, I know what you’re going to do. Eat all the food—yes, you will. Listen to all the music—yes, you will. Enjoy what I believe is the best city on earth. Y’all have so much fun without me. Wah wah! Happy Mardi Gras!”

A City Close to Her Heart

Kotb’s love for New Orleans runs deep. Before making a name for herself on Today, she worked as a reporter and anchor for WWL-TV, a local CBS affiliate in the city. Over the years, she has continued to celebrate and support the Crescent City, frequently attending events and showing her love for the New Orleans Saints.

In an interview with Southern Living in June 2024, Kotb described her connection to the city. “It’s the closest to a hometown I’ve ever felt,” she shared. “There’s a magnetism about New Orleans that grabs you right out the gate.”

Her fondness for the city has also been reflected in her time on Today. Roker fondly recalled a memorable experience from a decade ago when he had the chance to participate in the Mardi Gras festivities alongside Kotb. “I will tell you, about 10 years ago, I got to ride with Hoda on a float in the parade,” he reminisced. “It was like riding with the queen of England.”

Reflecting on Recent Events

Beyond her love for Mardi Gras, Kotb has also shared emotional moments tied to New Orleans. Following the tragic New Year’s Day terrorist attack on Bourbon Street earlier this year, she expressed her devastation on air. “New Orleans is my second home, and my heart broke this morning,” she told viewers, mourning the impact on a place so dear to her.

Life After Today

Since stepping away from Today on January 10 to focus on spending more time with her daughters, Haley, 7, and Hope, 5, Kotb has embraced a new routine. Though she no longer appears on the morning show daily, her presence remains strong, and her surprise video appearance was a reminder of the deep bond she shares with her former colleagues.

Even though she has moved on from her full-time role at NBC, Kotb has not completely stepped away from television. She recently signed a deal with the network to serve as a special correspondent, which means fans can still expect to see her covering major events, including the next two Olympic Games.

A Celebration of Family and New Beginnings

Kotb’s surprise message to her Today family reflected the joy she continues to bring to the people around her. While her days of early morning television may be behind her, her connection to the show, her co-workers, and the audience remains as strong as ever.

With Mardi Gras celebrations underway and new adventures on the horizon, Kotb is letting the good times roll—just as she always has.

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