The Today Show star Hoda Kotb‘s final day on the daytime talk show was truly an emotional affair as she and her co-anchors celebrated her 26 memorable years at the network.
Kotb could not hold back her tears as she sat surrounded by her colleagues for the very last time.
“Can I just say thank you? I haven’t been able to articulate it, because I’m a mess most times, but I just want to say thanks,” she said.
Her daughters Haley, 7, and Hope, 5, were also in attendance for her final broadcast, where they were serenaded by Kermit the Frog and visited by special surprise guests.
But the “Hoda-bration” certainly won’t be stopping there. Kotb also hosts the fourth hour of Today with Jenna Bush Hager, where they will be joined by even more special guests and a live audience.
Kotb announced her plans to retire in September 2024.
“I know I’m making the right decision, but it’s a painful one. And you all are the reason why. They say two things can be right at the same time, and I’m feeling that so deeply right now,” she said in a statement, per Today.com. “I love you and it’s time for me to leave the show.”
Kotb will be replaced by Craig Melvin during the earlier hours of Today. Meanwhile, Today With Hoda & Jenna will rebrand as Bush Hager continues her search for a new co-host on Today With Jenna & Friends.
But Kotb will be staying on at NBC as a correspondent. Page Six reports that Kotb has since signed a new deal to remain at NBC for exclusive interviews and to serve as a correspondent for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
“I think it’ll be kind of a Snoop-ish role,” she told the outlet, meaning she will be bringing the entertainment and fun as Snoop Dogg did during the 2024 Paris Olympics.
“I want to be a supporting character on a team that is already in place so that I’ll come in and just have a role there. And then I’m going to do my Making Space podcast, which I enjoy and love so much,” Kotb added. “And for The Today Show, I think we talked about doing something every four to six weeks, just a little something.”
Kotb even hinted that she may even make an appearance on Today With Jenna & Friends. For now, the daytime television legend is focusing on staying hydrated during this emotional week.
“I literally have a bottle of Gatorade by my bed. And I’m not kidding after this week of tears,” she said.
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