Hoda Kotb Gets Emotional, Confesses She Didn’t Leave ‘TODAY’ for Her Kids: ‘I Would’ve Gone Crazy Staying…’

In a deeply emotional revelation, Hoda Kotb opened up about her decision to step away from TODAY, sharing that it was not because of her children but rather a crucial move for her own mental health and happiness.

A Heartfelt Confession

While Hoda’s fans have long known her as a dedicated mother to her two young daughters, Haley and Hope, her decision to leave the show wasn’t driven by motherhood. “I would’ve gone crazy staying,” she admitted through tears. Hoda shared that after years of non-stop work, the constant demands of the show, and her responsibilities at home, she reached a point where stepping back was necessary for her well-being.

“I love my children, but this wasn’t about them,” she explained. “It was about me needing to prioritize my mental health and peace of mind. Sometimes, you have to be brave enough to admit that you can’t do it all, and that’s okay.”

Personal Growth and the Need for Balance

Reflecting on her time at TODAY, Hoda emphasized the importance of finding balance. She said that staying in her role would have pushed her to the brink. “I was pushing myself to the limit, and I realized that for the sake of my mental health, I needed to step away,” Hoda confessed. It wasn’t an easy decision, but it was one that felt essential as she sought to take control of her life and happiness again.

A Decision for Herself, Not Just for Family

Hoda’s vulnerability in discussing her departure was both raw and relatable. “I came to the realization that I couldn’t keep doing everything at the level I was. It was taking a toll on me,” she said, explaining that she had spent many years prioritizing everything and everyone around her, leaving little room for herself. Now, she is taking the time to focus on her own needs, something she feels is just as important as her commitments to her family.

Support from Loved Ones

Throughout this emotional process, Hoda expressed gratitude for the unwavering support from her colleagues, especially her co-anchor, Savannah Guthrie. Savannah has been a constant source of encouragement, assuring Hoda that stepping away was a valid and courageous decision. “She told me that it was okay to take a break, that my happiness matters,” Hoda recalled, wiping away tears.

Looking Toward the Future

Though Hoda is leaving TODAY, she made it clear that her journey with NBC is far from over. She hinted at taking on a new role within the network, although she didn’t go into specifics. “I’m excited for the new chapter that’s ahead,” she said. “It’s time for me to explore new possibilities that align with where I am in my life right now.”

Hoda Kotb’s decision to step back from TODAY is a powerful reminder that self-care and mental well-being should always come first. As she embraces this new chapter, her fans continue to support her as she navigates this pivotal moment in her life. It’s clear that Hoda’s journey is about more than just balancing work and family – it’s about ensuring she is in the best place possible for herself, and by doing so, will continue to be the loving mother, anchor, and friend that so many admire.