Hoda Kotb, a cherished figure on NBC News’ “TODAY” for nearly 20 years, announced on Thursday her decision to step down from the morning show’s co-anchor position early next year.
Reflecting on her recent milestone birthday of 60, she expressed her desire to make a change. “I realized that it was time for me to turn the page at 60 and to try something new,” she shared, visibly emotional and surrounded by her co-hosts.
Since early 2018, Kotb has co-anchored “TODAY” with Savannah Guthrie, marking the first all-female anchor team in the show’s history. An emotional Guthrie expressed that the team cannot envision the show without Kotb, praising her courage and remarking that she is leaving at “the top of [her] game.”
In a message to her colleagues, Kotb noted that her daughters and mother “need and deserve a bigger slice of my time pie.” She confirmed that she would remain with “TODAY” until early next year and plans to continue working with NBC in an unspecified capacity.
Expressing gratitude for her long-standing relationship with NBC, she said, “Happily and gratefully, I plan to remain a part of the NBC family, the longest work relationship I’ve been lucky enough to hold close to my heart.”
Al Roker, the iconic “TODAY” weatherman, honored Kotb by stating, “I have never known anybody like you. … I’ve known you forever and love you.”
“TODAY” has been a pivotal franchise for NBC, consistently driving advertising revenue and recently outperforming ABC’s “Good Morning America” among adults aged 25 to 54 for 58 weeks, marking its best streak in over three years.
Kotb began her journey at NBC News in 1998 as a correspondent for “Dateline,” covering a wide range of news stories before joining “TODAY” in 2007. There, she co-hosted the show’s fourth hour with Kathie Lee Gifford, where they developed a loyal fan base through their engaging conversations and celebrity interviews. Currently, she co-hosts the fourth hour with Jenna Bush Hager.
After NBC News dismissed Matt Lauer in November 2017 due to allegations of inappropriate conduct, Kotb stepped in as co-anchor on a temporary basis, later securing the role permanently in early 2018. At that time, Guthrie remarked that Kotb’s appointment was likely among the most popular decisions made by NBC News.
Throughout her tenure, Kotb and Guthrie have navigated significant historical events, including the presidencies of Donald Trump and Joe Biden, the Covid pandemic, and the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. Kotb has also shared her personal journey, detailing her battle with breast cancer and her experiences adopting her daughters, 7-year-old Haley and 5-year-old Hope.
In her farewell message, Kotb reassured her colleagues, stating there will be ample time for discussions about future opportunities. “But one thing I know for sure right now is this: everything’s going to be just fine,” she wrote. “The Peacock’s feathers are never ruffled … no matter who comes or goes. ‘TODAY’ and its amazing people — all of you — never waver. You always weather change with grace.”