Hoda Kotb Bids Farewell to TODAY Show After Nearly Two Decades

Hoda Kotb, the beloved co-anchor of NBC‘s TODAY show, is wrapping up her nearly two-decade-long tenure with a heartfelt goodbye. Her final day as co-anchor and co-host of TODAY with Hoda & Jenna is set for January 10, 2025, marking the end of an era for the morning news staple.

Kotb announced her departure in September 2024, citing a desire to spend more time with her family and explore new opportunities. “I realized that it was time for me to turn the page at 60, and to try something new,” Kotb told her TODAY family during her emotional announcement. She emphasized her wish to dedicate more time to her daughters, Haley and Hope, whom she adopted later in life.

To celebrate her contributions, TODAY is hosting a “Hoda-bration” on her final day, complete with a live audience at Studio 8G in New York City’s Rockefeller Plaza. Jenna Bush Hager, Kotb’s co-host, revealed the surprise celebration, which will include “big surprises” and a tribute to Kotb’s impact on the show and its viewers.

Fans have shown overwhelming support for Kotb, with tickets to the live event selling out in just six minutes. “I would love to tell people to get tickets, but you put them up online and it sold out in six minutes,” Seth Meyers joked during Kotb’s appearance on “Late Night with Seth Meyers.”

Throughout her final week, Kotb has been honored with heartfelt messages from colleagues, celebrities, and fans. A collage of handmade signs from viewers was presented to her during the January 8 episode, leaving Kotb visibly moved. “It means everything,” she said. “I can’t believe that you saved all these.”

Kotb’s decision to leave was influenced by a desire to prioritize her family and personal growth. She shared a poignant moment with her daughter Hope, who inspired her to “find a different tree” in life. “I thought, ‘Oh my gosh.’ So sometimes the world starts showing you,” Kotb explained. “I kind of knew that it was time to try something different.”

While Kotb has not disclosed specific plans for her next chapter, she expressed interest in the wellness space. “I’ve been so turned on by the wellness space,” she said. “I want to work in that space. I want to start things.”

Craig Melvin will succeed Kotb as co-anchor of TODAY, beginning January 13, 2025. “I am beyond excited and grateful,” Melvin said. Kotb praised Melvin, calling him “literally made for this job.”

As Kotb prepares to step away from the TODAY show, she leaves behind a legacy of warmth, authenticity, and connection with viewers. “I love new adventures, and I’ve been on the ride of a lifetime,” she said. “And I think sometimes we’re afraid, because what could be better than this?”