Hoda Kotb's Farewell: A Bittersweet Goodbye to the "Today" Show

Hoda Kotb, a beloved figure on the "Today" show for over two decades, has announced her departure from the morning program. In a heartfelt memo to her team, Kotb revealed that her upcoming 60th birthday and the needs of her family have prompted this decision, signaling the end of an era for the iconic NBC News anchor.

Embracing a New Chapter: Hoda Kotb's Farewell to the "Today" Show

A Storied Career at NBC News

Hoda Kotb's journey with NBC News began in 1998 when she joined the network as a correspondent for "Dateline." Her talent and charisma quickly propelled her to the forefront, and in 2007, she became a fixture on the "Today" show, where she has co-anchored alongside Savannah Guthrie since 2018. Kotb's tenure at NBC has been marked by her unwavering professionalism, her genuine connection with viewers, and her ability to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of morning television.

A Milestone Birthday and a Shift in Priorities

Kotb's decision to step away from the "Today" show comes at a pivotal moment in her life. As she approaches her 60th birthday, the veteran journalist has found herself reflecting on the balance between her professional commitments and her personal life. In her memo to her team, Kotb expressed a desire to devote more time to her daughters and her mother, acknowledging that they "need and deserve a bigger slice of my time pie."

Leaving a Lasting Legacy

Kotb's departure from the "Today" show will undoubtedly leave a void, both for her colleagues and the millions of viewers who have grown accustomed to her warm presence and insightful reporting. Her co-anchor, Savannah Guthrie, described Kotb as her "rock," while Jenna Bush Hager, another "Today" show personality, referred to her as her "ride-or-die." These heartfelt tributes underscore the profound impact Kotb has had on the lives of those she has worked with and the deep connections she has forged with the audience.

Remaining a Part of the NBC Family

Despite her departure from the "Today" show, Kotb has assured her team that she will remain a part of the NBC family, the "longest work relationship" she has been fortunate enough to maintain. This promise of continued involvement with the network suggests that Kotb's legacy at NBC News will continue to evolve, even as she embarks on a new chapter in her life.

A Bittersweet Farewell

Hoda Kotb's decision to leave the "Today" show early next year is a bittersweet moment for both the anchor and her devoted fans. While her departure marks the end of an era, it also represents Kotb's commitment to prioritizing her personal life and embracing the next phase of her journey. As she steps away from the morning show, Kotb leaves behind a lasting impact on the industry and the hearts of those who have followed her remarkable career.