“Uncovering the Truth Behind Hoda Kotb’s Departure from the ‘Today’ Show at 60”

Hoda Kotb’s departure from a popular talk show has sparked mixed reactions, with much of the attention focused on the reasons behind her decision to step back.

Journalist Hoda Kotb announced her decision to step down as co-anchor of the “Today” show, prompting widespread discussion across online communities.

Hoda Kotb, who co-anchored with Savannah Guthrie for over five years, reflected on her journey during the live broadcast of the “Today” show on September 26, 2024. In her statement, shared later on the show’s Instagram page, she described her time at NBC as the “longest professional love affair” of her life, emphasizing the support of viewers throughout her 26-year career. She praised the “Today” show’s team for their grace and resilience in the face of change.

In her letter, Hoda Kotb highlighted her 26-year career at NBC News, which included ten years with “Dateline,” seven years on the 7 a.m. hour, and sixteen years on the 10 a.m. hour.

Hoda Kotb revealed that she had been contemplating her decision for a while, unsure if she was truly ready to step down. However, her 60th birthday celebration served as a turning point, helping her realize that it was time to move forward.

Hoda Kotb reflected on her nearly three-decade-long broadcast career, highlighting its significance. She also emphasized the importance of spending more time with her daughters and mother as part of her decision to step down.

While Hoda Kotb will miss everyone dearly, she expressed excitement for what the future holds. She reassured viewers that she will continue working through early 2025, providing ample time to share her upcoming plans.

Hoda Kotb affirmed that the “Today” show and its dedicated team would remain strong despite any changes. She expressed deep gratitude for her NBC family and promised to stay connected, as they will always hold a special place in her heart.

The Egyptian-born broadcaster, Hoda Kotb, has faced significant personal challenges during her remarkable career. She was diagnosed with breast cancer, and unfortunately, the treatment left her unable to conceive.

Adding to her struggles, Hoda Kotb’s two-year marriage to tennis coach Burzis Kanga ended in divorce less than a year after she recovered from breast cancer. At that time, she had already let go of the hope of becoming a mother. Hoda shared that becoming a mother had always been a dream, but when things didn’t go as planned, she had to accept that it might not happen.

Despite trying to move on, Hoda Kotb often felt an emotional void whenever others asked if she had children. She even considered switching careers, imagining roles like a schoolteacher or running a summer camp. However, her dream of motherhood was finally realized when she adopted her first child, daughter Haley Joy, in February 2017. Hoda joyfully announced the arrival of her newborn on the “Today” show, sharing the heartwarming news with her colleagues.

Less than ten days after bringing her newborn daughter home, Hoda Kotb had already settled into the routine of bottle feedings, diaper changes, and endless laundry. She spent her days in her Upper West Side penthouse, embracing the simple joys of caring for her baby. Despite her wealth of life experiences, she discovered a new depth of love she hadn’t known befor

In April 2019, Hoda Kotb expanded her family by adopting another baby girl, Hope Catherine. She shared the joyful news on the “Today” show, expressing that her daughter Haley had warmly embraced her new role as a big sister.

In March 2023, Hoda Kotb’s family faced a scare when Hope experienced a health issue that resulted in a week-long hospital stay, including several days in the ICU.

Hoda Kotb had to step away from work to manage the emergency, and upon her return, she expressed deep gratitude that her daughter was back home and recovering. In May of that year, Hoda provided an update on her 3-year-old, sharing that Hope was improving and doing much better. While she acknowledged that the recovery would be a longer journey, she remained positive about her daughter’s progress.

Hoda Kotb shares her two daughters with her former fiancé, Joel Schiffman, to whom she was engaged from 2019 until 2022. As a single parent, Hoda currently lives with her daughters in a suburban home, having announced plans to move from her New York City apartment in March 2024.

Moving from the city to the suburbs was a tough decision for Hoda Kotb, as she had lived in the same apartment since adopting her daughters in 2017 and 2019.

Hoda Kotb believed that moving to the suburbs would provide her children with new experiences, such as feeling the grass beneath their feet, playing in a yard, and riding bikes in a safe, small-town environment. Turning 60 prompted Hoda to reflect on her life, especially the profound lessons motherhood had taught her. She shared that being a mom had shown her that anything is possible and helped her realize that she is “good enough,” despite her flaws.

Hoda Kotb’s daughters have taught her to find humor in life’s challenges and have affirmed that she was always meant to be a mother. Becoming a mother later in life, she feels that her children now deserve much of her time, which was a key reason behind her decision to step away from the “Today” show.

Reports suggest another possible reason for Hoda Kotb’s departure from the “Today” show. Allegedly, she left her lucrative $20 million-plus per year deal after NBC proposed a pay cut.

A veteran media executive pointed out that Hoda Kotb’s departure is part of a broader trend in the industry, saying, “This is the age of the great resetting of TV news contracts. Everyone is getting their pay cut or their jobs eliminated.” Since her announcement, social media users have actively discussed her decision to leave the “Today” show.

One social media user commented, “She made her millions. Now it’s time to go spend them.” Another remarked, “Well, no one can say the Democrat-owned media doesn’t pay well. Hoda is worth 30 million dollars. I would quit too. There is so much more to do in life.”

One person commented, “This is absolutely cringeworthy.” Another exclaimed, “She’s being pushed out! Good job Hoda!” A YouTube user expressed admiration for Kotb, writing, “I always liked Hoda. She deserves every bit of retirement and to enjoy her time with her children and her life. All the best.”

One person echoed similar sentiments, saying, “Your kids will love having more of you. And you will love your newfound freedom. Congratulations Hoda.”

Hoda Kotb’s journey has been marked by challenges, triumphs, and a deep love for her family. As she steps into a new chapter, she remains focused on what matters most—her daughters and the life they are building together.