Hoda Kotb Officially Leaves NBC’s ‘Today’ After Nearly 20 Years

Nationwide — Hoda Kotb, the co-host of NBC’s Today, said goodbye on Friday, ending her nearly 20-year run with the morning show. During her farewell, Kotb expressed gratitude, recalling memories with her co-anchors and sharing heartfelt moments with fans.

Kotb, who is now 60 years old, shocked viewers when she announced her departure in September, calling it the “hardest decision of her life,” according to CNN. She plans to focus on raising her two young daughters.

Her final broadcast featured heartfelt tributes from co-hosts Savannah Guthrie, Craig Melvin, Al Roker, and Carson Daly. Holding back tears, Kotb thanked them all, calling Guthrie “her person,” Roker “her first friend,” and Daly the show’s “secret sauce,” while she praised Melvin for earning his new co-anchor position.

Today surprised Kotb with appearances from celebrities like Maria Shriver and Simone Biles, who promised to see her at the 2028 Olympics. Her kids joined in, and even Kermit the Frog shared his love for her smile. Fans gathered outside NBC’s studios to celebrate, holding signs in her honor, which Kotb vowed to keep.

Kotb joined Today in 2007 and became a beloved figure for her warmth. She took over the main anchor role in 2018 after Matt Lauer’s exit.

NBC confirmed that Melvin will replace Kotb as co-anchor alongside Guthrie starting Monday. The fourth hour, which she hosted with Jenna Bush Hager, will be rebranded as Jenna & Friends, with a rotating cast of guest co-hosts.

Kotb’s departure marks a significant shift in the morning television world, as Today and similar shows like ABC’s Good Morning America have long been central to the broadcast industry.