Hoda Kotb’s departure from the Today show in early 2025 marked the end of an era, as she stepped away from her long-standing role to focus on her family. 

The 60-year-old journalist had been with Today for 17 years and spent a total of 26 years with NBC. 

Her decision to leave was primarily driven by her desire to spend more time with her two daughters, a move that was both surprising and deeply personal.

Kotb and Savannah Guthrie had co-hosted the morning show together since 2018, forming a close bond both on and off the air. 

Despite Kotb’s exit, their friendship remains strong. The two recently reunited while vacationing separately in Palm Beach, Florida, highlighting their ongoing connection. 

Guthrie spoke to US Weekly about her reaction to Kotb’s decision, revealing that she was overseas attending a wedding when she received the call from her longtime colleague.

“I said to my husband, ‘Hoda wants to call me, and she knows I’m at the airport. This can’t be good.’ I kind of had a feeling that it could be that,” Guthrie recalled.

While Guthrie admitted she was heartbroken to lose her professional partner, she also expressed admiration for Kotb’s courage in making such a bold move.

“I’m also thrilled for her and proud of her. That is so gutsy to leave something you love at the height of your excellence and say, ‘I’m dreaming this bigger dream for myself.’”

Guthrie added that Kotb had considered continuing for another decade but ultimately decided to take a leap of faith.

“She was like, ‘I turned 60, and sure, I could do this wonderful thing with one hand tied behind my back for another 10 years,’ but she said, ‘I’m going to take a risk.’”

As for the future of Today, Craig Melvin was announced as Kotb’s replacement. Having been with NBC and MSNBC since 2011, Melvin has built a reputation as a skilled journalist and news anchor, earning multiple Emmy Awards along the way. His seamless transition into the role has been widely praised.

Before her departure, Kotb left a heartfelt message for Melvin in the form of a poem, which she shared with him upon his official debut as co-host. The poem read:

“Craig! / I’m moving forward, so reach back your hand. / Grab the baton, your world will expand. / The adventures are endless … the people so dear. / Great memories await, year after year. / Day One! You are ready surrounded by love. / Your team is the kind you can only dream of. / Savannah, Al, and Carson are here! / With partners like these, your runway is clear.

From out on the plaza to inside 30 Rock, / Your fans are so eager, they’re watching the clock. / The time has arrived to rise like the sun. / I am cheering for you, and a fabulous run!”

The touching note underscored Kotb’s appreciation for the show and her confidence in Melvin’s ability to carry the torch forward.

Guthrie also believes Kotb misses the show, noting that she still wakes up at the same early hour. “I texted her [recently] and was like, ‘Are you still getting up at this hour?’ And she writes back, ‘Yes.’ I bet she misses all of us, but she’s really happy,” Guthrie shared.

Despite her departure from Today, Kotb remains a beloved figure in the media industry. Her decision to prioritize her family over her career was met with widespread support from fans and colleagues alike. As she embarks on this new chapter of her life, her legacy on Today remains intact, and her friendship with Guthrie continues to thrive.

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