Hoda Kotb Announces Departure from NBC’s “Today” Show
Hoda Kotb, known for her radiant smile and warm demeanor, has been a beloved presence on NBC’s “Today” show for the past 17 years. In a surprising revelation on Thursday, she announced her decision to step down from her hosting duties early next year. This choice, Ms. Kotb shared, was influenced by a period of reflection that coincided with her recent milestone—her 60th birthday.
“I just felt the universe was sending me a message,” she expressed in an interview with The New York Times prior to sharing the news with “Today” viewers. “This moment in life invites introspection, allowing one to explore their yearnings and callings—deciding the direction to take as I enter this new decade.”
Beginning her career as a local news reporter, Ms. Kotb (pronounced COT-bee) cultivated a unique bond with her audience, often sharing a glass of wine on-air, which helped her evolve into one of the most recognizable faces on television. She joined NBC in 1998 as a correspondent for Dateline, and her career quickly blossomed.
Although she will be stepping back from her full-time hosting role, Ms. Kotb will continue to contribute occasionally to NBC. She has expressed interest in exploring projects within the wellness sector, describing it as “a beautiful, fertile, wonderful place to be.” However, she emphasized that it was time for her to “turn the page on what has been a dream book, a dream quarter-century.”
Her departure is set to create significant vacancies in two of the most sought-after roles in television news. Ms. Kotb holds the anchor chair for the flagship “Today” telecast from 7 to 9 a.m., as well as a hosting position for its fourth hour at 10 a.m. The “Today” franchise continues to play a vital role in driving revenue for NBC.
