Hoda Kotb, the beloved co-anchor of NBC’s Today show, announced that she will step down from her position in early 2025, leaving behind a remarkable legacy after 17 years on one of television’s most iconic morning programs. This decision marks a seismic shift in the landscape of morning television, as Kotb’s warmth and genuine connection with audiences have been key to Today’s success. Her departure opens two of the most coveted anchor chairs in television, creating a high-stakes challenge for NBC as it seeks her replacement.
Hoda Kotb: The Heart of NBC’s Today Show
Since joining Today in 2007, Hoda Kotb has become a household name, known for her infectious smile, candid personality, and heartfelt interviews. Initially paired with Kathie Lee Gifford in the 10 a.m. hour, Kotb quickly established a deep rapport with viewers, leading to a permanent seat in the show’s earlier segments alongside Savannah Guthrie after Matt Lauer’s sudden exit in 2017.
Hoda’s decision to leave the show comes after a period of self-reflection that began with her 60th birthday earlier this year. In an interview with The New York Times, she explained, “I just thought the universe was speaking to me. This is a time in life for looking inside you, and figuring out what your yearnings are.” Her reflection has led her to focus on her family and future passions, including potential projects in wellness. “It’s such a beautiful, fertile, wonderful place to be,” she said of the wellness space.
Kotb’s decision to step down has stirred emotions within the Today family. Co-anchor Savannah Guthrie expressed her mixed feelings, calling herself “super proud” and “super heartbroken.” Likewise, Jenna Bush Hager, Kotb’s co-host in the fourth hour, praised her bravery in choosing to prioritize family over career.
The Legacy of Hoda Kotb
Kotb’s influence on Today and morning television is undeniable. Her journey from local news reporter to one of the most recognizable faces in broadcast journalism is a testament to her talent, resilience, and relatability. Born in Oklahoma to Egyptian immigrants, Kotb’s early career saw her reporting in smaller markets before making the leap to network television in 1998 as a correspondent for NBC’s Dateline.
In 2008, NBC paired Kotb with Kathie Lee Gifford for Today’s 10 a.m. hour, a move that would change the course of her career. The two hosts formed a dynamic duo that blended light-hearted conversations, celebrity interviews, and candid moments about their personal lives. Kotb, who openly shared her experience with breast cancer and struggles with fertility, resonated with viewers on a deep, personal level. In 2017, Kotb adopted her first daughter, Haley, and in 2019, she adopted her second daughter, Hope, further endearing her to audiences as she navigated motherhood in her 50s.
However, Kotb’s most significant role came in the aftermath of the sexual misconduct allegations that led to Matt Lauer’s firing. With the show in crisis, NBC turned to Kotb to fill the void, pairing her with Savannah Guthrie in what was initially a temporary arrangement. Viewers responded positively to the pairing, leading to her permanent placement as co-anchor. Together, Kotb and Guthrie have helped Today maintain its position as one of the top-rated morning shows in the country.
A Family-First Decision
While Kotb’s departure is undoubtedly a loss for NBC, her decision is deeply rooted in her desire to spend more time with her family. In 2023, her younger daughter, Hope, was hospitalized in intensive care for an undisclosed health issue. Though Kotb has since said that her daughter’s health has stabilized, the experience reminded her of the importance of being present for her children.
“I have a time pie in front of me,” Kotb explained, “and I think my kids deserve a bigger slice of that pie.” Her decision reflects a broader shift in the priorities of many working parents who strive to balance career and family, a sentiment echoed by her colleagues. Jenna Bush Hager, visibly emotional, praised Kotb’s choice: “We talk often about how brave it is to make the choice to be there for your family and to give up something that we all love so much.”
NBC’s Challenge: Filling Big Shoes
Kotb’s impending departure presents a significant challenge for NBC. Today remains a crucial driver of revenue for the network, particularly in the highly competitive morning show market. Although ABC’s Good Morning America has a slight lead in total viewership, Today has maintained a commanding lead in the key demographic of viewers aged 25 to 54, which is vital to advertisers. NBC will need to find the right person to fill Kotb’s seat, ensuring the show’s continued success in both ratings and revenue.
As of now, NBC executives have not announced who will succeed Kotb, leaving speculation about who will take over one or both of her roles. The decision will be a high-stakes one for the network, as they look to maintain the chemistry and energy that Kotb brought to the program.
The End of an Era, But Not Goodbye
Although Hoda Kotb will no longer be a daily presence on Today, she has hinted that she will remain connected to NBC in some capacity. Kotb will still contribute occasionally to the network, and she has expressed excitement about pursuing new ventures in wellness and personal development.
Her departure signals the end of an era for morning television, but it’s clear that Kotb’s influence will continue to resonate. Reflecting on her time at Today, Kotb shared, “There’s no way on God’s green earth I could have even dreamt something this spectacular.” Her remarkable career, spanning decades, is a testament to her ability to connect with people on a profound, human level—whether they were celebrities sitting across from her or millions of viewers watching from home.
Looking Forward
As NBC prepares for life after Hoda Kotb, the network faces the daunting task of replacing a figure who has been integral to Today’s success. Whoever steps into her shoes will inherit not just a high-profile role, but also the expectations of millions of viewers who have come to see Kotb as a trusted friend in their morning routine.
In the meantime, Kotb will focus on her next chapter, one that seems to be as much about looking inward as it is about finding new external opportunities. Her departure from Today may be a bittersweet moment for her colleagues and fans, but it is also a reflection of her desire to embrace change and create space for new possibilities—both for herself and for her family.
In the fast-paced world of television news, Kotb’s exit is a reminder that even the most successful careers are driven by personal fulfillment, and that sometimes, the most important stories are the ones we write for ourselves.
In summary, Hoda Kotb’s departure from NBC’s Today is a defining moment for the network and a personal milestone for the beloved anchor. As she embarks on this new chapter, both her legacy and her future endeavors will continue to inspire those who have followed her journey.
