Hoda Kotb Bids Emotional Farewell to ‘Today’ After 26 Years

NEW YORK — Hoda Kotb, the beloved co-host of NBC‘s ‘Today‘ show, officially signed off on her final episode Friday after a 26-year career with the network. The emotional farewell included laughter, tears, and a heartfelt tribute to her colleagues and fans.

Kotb, 60, announced her departure in September, citing her desire to spend more time with her two young daughters and pursue a new career in wellness. Her final appearance on the show was marked by a mix of humor and sentimentality, as her co-stars and guests celebrated her legacy.

During the broadcast, Kotb was joined by her daughters, Haley, 8, and Hope, 5, as well as co-host Jenna Bush Hager and the show’s entire staff. ‘This is our longtime staff, our incredible crew, our producers. They all came. They’re all here,’ Kotb said, visibly moved. ‘This is the crew that when you walk in the room, they say ‘Good morning,’ lift you up.’

In a lighthearted moment, Kotb mistook co-host Savannah Guthrie‘s announcement about saying goodbye to ‘an icon at 30 Rock’ as a reference to herself. Guthrie clarified that she was referring to the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, prompting laughter from the crew and Kotb herself. ‘You’re messing with me,’ Kotb said, wiping away tears.

Kotb also shared her plans for the future, including launching a wellness app and company that will feature retreats, a podcast, and other projects. ‘I am starting a wellness app and company that will involve retreats and a podcast and all kinds of things that we can get together, do things that I love,’ she explained.

The farewell episode included tributes from notable figures such as Gayle King, Jimmy Fallon, and Kathie Lee Gifford, as well as a performance by singer Walker Hayes. Kotb expressed her gratitude to fans, saying, ‘I read your cards. I got your bracelets. I got the scarves you crocheted. I read the texts. I got everything, so I just want to say from the bottom of my heart, thank you for coming out, for being here and for everything you did. I love you.’

Kotb’s departure marks the end of an era for ‘Today,’ where she became a household name and a source of inspiration for millions of viewers. Craig Melvin will take over her role starting January 13, 2025.