Hoda Kotb Steps Down from Today Show After 18 Years

Hoda Kotb is leaving her 18-year run on the Today show after announcing her departure in September 2024. The NBC morning show icon explained that she’s making this move to spend more time with her daughters, Haley Joy and Hope Catherine, whom she adopted in 2017 and 2019.

Kotb joined the show in 2007 as host of its fourth-hour slot, followed by a decade-long partnership with co-host Kathie Lee Gifford. She became an all-female anchor team alongside Savannah Guthrie in 2018, marking a historic milestone for network television.

In October 2024, Kotb revealed that the decision to leave Today was “terrifying” but also “exactly right” for her family. She’s now looking forward to launching a wellness app and hosting retreats, as well as embracing life with her daughters in their new suburban home in New York.

Kotb’s departure is set to be marked by Craig Melvin taking over as Guthrie’s permanent co-anchor starting January 13. NBC has rebranded the show’s fourth hour under a new format called Today with Jenna & Friends, featuring Bush Hager and rotating guest hosts.

Source: https://people.com/when-is-hoda-kotb-last-day-on-today-show-8769650