As Today co-host Hoda Kotb prepares to step away from the morning show in January 2025, 

those who have worked alongside her are reflecting on some of their most cherished memories. 

One such moment recently resurfaced, as Jenna Bush Hager shared a touching story about the first time she met Kotb’s youngest daughter, Hope Catherine. 

The moment was so moving that it left her in tears—right before a high-profile interview with music icon Cher.

A Surprise FaceTime Call

During the November 19 episode of Today, Kotb and Bush Hager reminisced about their time together on the show, which led to a discussion about their experience meeting Cher. 

The legendary singer had previously appeared on the morning program, 

and Bush Hager recalled how their first in-person meeting coincided with another significant milestone—her introduction to baby Hope.

“It was the first week of our show. Hoda and I had done our show for a week, and it was Sunday,” Bush Hager recounted. She explained that she was set to interview Cher at a Broadway show dedicated to the singer’s life and career. However, just before heading into the theater, she received a FaceTime call from Kotb that changed everything.

“Hoda FaceTimed me and said, ‘I want you to meet baby Hope,’” Bush Hager shared with the audience. Seeing Kotb’s newly adopted daughter for the first time was an overwhelming experience for her. “I got to meet her baby. And then I had to go back and interview Cher! I was bawling crying.”

Hoda’s Journey to Motherhood

For Kotb, the arrival of Hope in April 2019 was a deeply meaningful chapter in her life. She had previously welcomed her first daughter, Haley Joy, in February 2017. As an adoptive mother, she has been open about her emotional journey to parenthood and the joy of expanding her family.

Over the years, Kotb has given Today viewers glimpses into her daughters’ milestones, frequently sharing stories about their lives. Earlier this year, she revealed that her decision to leave the show was largely driven by her desire to spend more time with Haley and Hope, stating, “I had my kiddos late in life, and I was thinking they deserve a bigger piece of my time.”

A Special Bond Between Co-Hosts

The connection between Kotb and Bush Hager extends beyond their professional partnership. The two have developed a deep friendship over the years, supporting each other through major life moments—including motherhood.

In a previous interview, Bush Hager reflected on how their journeys to parenthood overlapped in unexpected ways. She shared that around the time Kotb was in the process of adopting Hope, she discovered that she was pregnant with her third child, Hal.

“I remember when I took this job, I was pregnant with Hal. And I was really worried about it,” she admitted. “I went to Hoda’s dressing room because I knew she wanted to have another baby, and I knew she was in the process. I was really hoping that she would get the call any moment.”

Their close friendship allowed for candid conversations about the joys and challenges of building their families while balancing their careers.

A Lasting Friendship Beyond Today

Though Kotb’s departure from Today marks the end of an era, it is clear that her bond with Bush Hager will remain strong. Fans have enjoyed watching their dynamic unfold on screen and will undoubtedly miss their warm and often humorous interactions.

As Kotb transitions into this next chapter of her life, focusing on her daughters and new career ventures—including her upcoming wellness company—there is hope that she and Bush Hager will continue to share moments together, whether on-screen or off.

For viewers who have followed their journey, one thing is certain: even though Kotb is stepping away from the Today studio, the friendship and heartfelt memories she has created with her colleagues, like Bush Hager, will endure.

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