Hoda Kotb and her ex-fiancé Joel Schiffman embraced the spirit of the holidays by coparenting during Christmas this year. On December 25, Kotb shared a heartwarming family photo on Instagram featuring Schiffman and their two daughters, Haley and Hope, alongside Kotb’s mother and sister. The family donned matching green plaid pajamas and festive Santa-themed shirts, bringing a touch of holiday cheer as they posed together with mini light-up Santa hats. Kotb captioned the joyful post with a simple “Merry Christmas🎄❤️.”
The couple, who ended their engagement in 2022 after eight years together, have maintained a positive and supportive relationship for the sake of their children. Kotb has openly discussed their amicable split, emphasizing that it stemmed from a place of love, rather than any major crisis or scandal. “There was no cheating, no scandal, no big crisis,” she explained, stating that they simply grew apart over time.
In her book, “Jump and Find Joy: Embracing Change in Every Season of Life,” Kotb further elaborated on their decision to part ways, highlighting that it was a mutual choice made with careful consideration. She expressed a commitment to prioritize their children’s well-being and happiness, assuring that they both play active roles in their daughters’ lives. Kotb noted that they have successfully managed to coparent, keeping their family’s happiness at the forefront.
The bond between the family remains strong, as they continue to celebrate special occasions together, ensuring their daughters receive ample love and support from both parents. Kotb emphasized the significance of their friendship in providing a nurturing environment for Haley and Hope.
As Kotb navigates life as a single mother, she has also explored the dating scene since her breakup with Schiffman. Recently, she shared her experience of going on a date, revealing positive feedback. However, she also clarified her decision to take a step back from the relationship, seeking simplicity in her life amid her busy schedule as a mother and television personality.
This holiday season reflects the healing journey Kotb and Schiffman have undertaken since their split, highlighting their dedication to co-parenting and fostering a loving atmosphere for their daughters. Their continued friendship and collaborative parenting approach serve as a hopeful testament to navigating life changes with grace and positivity.