For 17 years, millions of Americans have started their mornings with Hoda Kotb on their screens. 

The beloved Today show anchor has been a comforting presence, known for her warmth, humor, and ability to connect with audiences. 

However, after more than two decades at NBC, Kotb has made the heartfelt decision to step away from the show to focus on her family, 

particularly her two young daughters, Haley Joy, 8, and Hope Catherine, 5.

Prioritizing Family Over Career

At 60 years old, Kotb has reached a pivotal moment in her life and career. Reflecting on her journey, she realized the importance of dedicating more time to her children.

“Obviously, I had my kiddos late in life, and I was thinking that they deserve a bigger piece of my time pie,” she explained. “I feel like we only have a finite amount of time.”

Her decision marks the end of an era for Today viewers, who have followed her through personal highs and lows, from her dynamic partnership with Kathie Lee Gifford at the news and booze desk to her emotional and candid moments with Jenna Bush Hager.

A Career Marked by Resilience and Connection

Throughout her time on Today, Kotb has been open about her life’s challenges and triumphs. She bravely shared her battle with breast cancer, which led to a mastectomy and reconstructive surgery. She also became an advocate for adoption, embracing motherhood later in life. Her journey resonated with millions, and her ability to balance professionalism with vulnerability made her a standout figure in morning television.

Kotb’s romantic life has also been a topic of public interest. She has openly discussed her past relationships, including her marriage, divorce, and a broken engagement. In 2022, she revealed on-air that she had called off her engagement to Joel Schiffman, a decision that was both painful and deeply personal.

More recently, Kotb shared that she has re-entered the dating scene and is even open to trying dating apps, though she prefers being set up by friends. As she moves forward, she remains optimistic about finding love again.

Looking Back on Hoda’s Relationship Journey

Burzis Kanga: A Short-Lived Marriage

Kotb’s first marriage was to Burzis Kanga, a former tennis coach at the University of New Orleans. The couple met at a Valentine’s Day fundraiser for the American Heart Association and dated for several years before tying the knot in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, in 2005.

At the time, Kotb spoke fondly of their relationship, sharing in a 2006 interview with New Orleans Living Magazine:

“We have been dating off and on for years. And of course, I had moved up to New York, but later we ended up connecting again. He proposed last May, and we married in December. And married life has been great!”

However, their happiness was short-lived. In 2007, just two years into their marriage, Kotb filed for divorce—the same month she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Their divorce was finalized in 2008.

In a later interview, Kanga reflected on the challenges that contributed to their split.

“I was not used to the big city, I guess,” he told RadarOnline, explaining how New York’s fast-paced lifestyle was difficult for him after years in New Orleans.

He also acknowledged personal struggles, saying, “We had some differences. My father was ill. She was ill. It was a difficult time.”

Despite their separation, Kanga spoke highly of Kotb, calling her “the epitome of class” and expressing that he would always cherish their memories together.

A Difficult Time of Transition

Kotb has been candid about how challenging that period in her life was. In October 2023, she reflected on going through both a divorce and a serious health battle simultaneously.

“I remembered in that time barely functioning, and I was thinking to myself, like, ‘Is this it? Is this how it goes?’” she shared on Today.

She explained how her declining health and emotional struggles compounded, making that phase of her life even more difficult. However, her resilience ultimately saw her through, and she emerged stronger, finding new joy in motherhood and her career.

A New Chapter Begins

Now, as Kotb bids farewell to Today, she embarks on a new chapter centered around her children. While fans will undoubtedly miss her on their screens each morning, her decision reflects her deep commitment to family and the recognition that time with her daughters is precious.

As she takes this step, Kotb’s legacy as a journalist, storyteller, and role model remains intact. Whether through future projects or personal endeavors, one thing is certain: Hoda Kotb will continue to inspire, no matter where life takes her next.

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