Hoda Kotb is stepping into a new chapter of her life following her final appearance on NBC’s Today show.
The 60-year-old broadcaster made her farewell to the iconic morning show on Friday, January 10, after nearly three decades with the network.
Her departure was met with an emotional tribute from colleagues, including Savannah Guthrie, and a heartfelt send-off that celebrated her legacy.
Kotb’s decision to leave the show, which she had co-hosted for years,
was not made lightly. In a post shared on Instagram on January 13, she expressed gratitude and optimism for the future, quoting,
“And suddenly, you know… it’s time to start something new and trust the magic of new beginnings.”
This statement resonated with her fans and colleagues alike, as she prepared to transition into a new phase of life. In her caption, Kotb sent well-wishes to her colleagues, including Craig Melvin, who was set to take over her spot. She wrote, “Here’s to everyone starting fresh— @craigmelvinnbc and @savannahguthrie … @jennabushhager and friends… and to me! Let’s do this!”
Craig Melvin was named as Kotb’s successor after her announcement in September 2024 that she would be stepping away from the show. Melvin, who had been a fixture on Today, expressed his excitement and gratitude for the new role, saying he was “beyond excited and grateful” to be stepping into Kotb’s shoes. He added that he felt fortunate to be given this incredible opportunity, calling it another blessing in his career. Kotb herself reassured Melvin that he was the perfect person for the job, praising his abilities and his character.
The farewell episode on January 10 marked the end of a week-long celebration of Kotb’s career, which she fondly referred to as the “Hoda-bration.” Surrounded by colleagues, including her co-host Savannah Guthrie, Kotb became emotional as she reflected on her years with the show. She thanked her team, praising Guthrie for her unwavering support and saying, “Savannah, oh, my God. You’re my person, you’re my person. You know who shows up for everybody? This girl. … She’s in the room, she’s always in the room, and I love you.” Kotb also expressed her excitement for Melvin’s future on Today, saying, “Craig, I’m so happy for you. You’ve earned this, you own this, and come Monday at 7 o’clock a.m., I am gonna be dead asleep. But you’re gonna be fantastic. You’re gonna bring it home. Craig, you’re gonna be so good. You and Savannah are gonna be magic.”
In the days following her last appearance, Kotb took a moment to send a personal message to Melvin, which aired on the show. In the video, Kotb praised him for his talents and offered her support as he embarked on this new journey. Melvin, moved by her kind words, was seen wiping away tears, with his family present in the studio to celebrate the milestone with him.
Kotb’s decision to leave the Today show was influenced by her growing desire to spend more time with her daughters, Haley and Hope, ages 7 and 5. In a letter shared with Today.com, she explained that the timing felt right for a change. “My sixtieth birthday celebration on the Plaza felt like a shift. Like a massive, joyful YES, you are!” she wrote. Kotb expressed that while her broadcasting career had been incredibly fulfilling, she now wanted to focus more on her family. She also noted how much she would miss her colleagues, but emphasized her excitement for what lies ahead in this new chapter.
Though Kotb is leaving her daily role on the Today show, she confirmed that she would remain a part of the NBC family. She described her time at the network as the longest work relationship she had been fortunate enough to have, calling it a deeply meaningful part of her life.
As Craig Melvin takes over the morning show, Kotb is looking forward to some well-deserved relaxation. The new year has already brought about changes for the beloved host, including no longer needing to set an alarm clock. In an Instagram post shared on January 12, Kotb humorously teased her fans, writing, “No alarm…whaaaaaaaattttt???” signaling the start of her next adventure.
Kotb’s departure marks the end of an era for Today, but her fans and colleagues alike are eager to see what she does next as she embraces the possibilities of a new beginning. With her positive outlook and unwavering support for Melvin, Hoda Kotb’s legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire and uplift those who have followed her journey over the years.
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