Hoda Kotb Says She Left ‘Today’ For Shocking Reason

Hoda Kotb, the beloved co-anchor of NBC’s “Today” show, has always been a staple of morning television, captivating audiences with her warmth, humor, and professionalism. Fans have tuned in to watch her interview celebrities, share heartwarming stories, and offer a ray of positivity during their early morning routines. However, in recent months, Hoda’s unexpected departure from the show left many viewers wondering: why did Hoda Kotb leave “Today”?

In an exclusive interview and a series of heartfelt social media posts, Hoda Kotb has finally opened up about the real reason behind her decision to leave the show temporarily. The truth behind her break from the daily grind of live television is more shocking and deeply personal than anyone could have anticipated.

Hoda Kotb’s Legacy on ‘Today’ Show

Before diving into the reasons behind her unexpected leave, it’s important to reflect on Hoda Kotb’s monumental journey with the “Today” show. Kotb first joined NBC’s “Today” as a correspondent in 1998, quickly becoming a fan favorite. Her signature mix of compassion, authenticity, and humor made her a staple on the show. Over the years, she solidified her place in the hearts of millions of viewers, and by 2007, she became the co-anchor of the fourth hour of the show alongside Kathie Lee Gifford.

In 2017, Kotb’s career reached new heights when she was named co-anchor of “Today” alongside Savannah Guthrie, following the departure of Matt Lauer. Hoda Kotb’s positive energy and professional demeanor earned her widespread acclaim, making her one of the most recognized faces in morning television.

For years, her chemistry with Guthrie and the rest of the team became a key part of the show’s appeal, and Kotb’s role was cemented as one of the most important in daytime television.

The Shocking Reason Behind Hoda Kotb’s Departure

Despite her thriving career and the outpouring of love from fans, Kotb’s decision to leave “Today” was far from straightforward. The shocking revelation she shared about why she took a break from the show was one that caught many by surprise. Kotb admitted that her departure wasn’t due to any professional conflicts or personal disagreements but because of something far more deeply rooted in her personal life.

In her interview, Hoda Kotb opened up about the struggles she faced in balancing her demanding career with the changes happening in her family life. For Kotb, her decision to step back temporarily from the public eye was a direct result of her need to care for a loved one who had been going through serious health issues. Hoda explained that she needed to prioritize her family’s well-being and, in particular, her loved one’s health, which had taken a toll on her emotionally.

Hoda was particularly open about the emotional burden she felt in this challenging period. She acknowledged how difficult it was to juggle her responsibilities at work while dealing with the intense pressure of managing her family’s health crisis. As a result, she made the tough decision to step away from her role on “Today” to ensure she could fully devote herself to her family during this trying time.

Hoda Kotb’s Transparency with Her Fans

What set Hoda Kotb apart in sharing this deeply personal reason for her leave was her level of transparency with her fans. For years, viewers had seen her as a resilient and strong individual who seemed capable of juggling everything effortlessly. To see her vulnerable and open about her personal struggles made her even more relatable and endearing to her fan base.

Hoda’s openness about her need to prioritize family over work resonated with many people who have faced similar challenges in their own lives. It’s a reminder that even those in the public eye, who seem to have it all together, go through difficult moments and tough decisions. Her ability to remain authentic during such a difficult time helped her maintain the deep connection she shares with her audience.

The Importance of Family and Work-Life Balance

Hoda Kotb’s decision to step back from “Today” sheds light on a broader issue that many people can relate to: the ongoing struggle to maintain a healthy work-life balance. While many admire Kotb’s dedication to her career, it’s clear that her love for her family is what motivated her to make such a bold decision. Her honesty serves as a reminder that it’s okay to take a step back, reassess priorities, and focus on the things that matter most in life.

Kotb’s story resonates with those who may be navigating their own personal struggles, whether they are balancing family dynamics, health concerns, or the pressure to meet high professional expectations. It also serves as an important conversation starter about the need for flexibility in our personal and professional lives, particularly when it comes to dealing with crises or life-altering events.

Hoda Kotb’s Return to ‘Today’

After taking time off to focus on her family, Hoda Kotb eventually returned to her co-anchor position on “Today” alongside Savannah Guthrie. The return of Kotb to the show was met with much excitement from fans who had missed her presence on the air. While she continues to be the heart and soul of the show, her experience has brought a new level of understanding and appreciation for her role in the media.

Hoda’s return has shown how much her career and personal life intertwine, as she has demonstrated that it’s possible to navigate both personal challenges and a successful career. Her ability to come back stronger and more grounded after taking time for herself and her loved ones has made her even more admired by her fans.

The Impact of Hoda Kotb’s Decision on Fans and Media

Hoda Kotb’s decision to leave “Today” temporarily and the reason behind it not only impacted her fans but also sparked broader conversations in the media industry. The emphasis on family and mental health is increasingly being recognized as an essential part of the conversation surrounding work-life balance in the fast-paced media industry.

Her decision also highlights how the media landscape is changing, with more public figures being open about their personal lives and the pressures they face. In the past, celebrities and media personalities were expected to maintain a sense of perfection, but Kotb’s decision to be vulnerable in front of the world is part of a larger shift toward more authenticity and openness in the industry.

Conclusion: A Stronger Hoda Kotb

While the reasons behind Hoda Kotb’s decision to leave “Today” may have been shocking to many, they also provide a deeper understanding of the personal side of the beloved anchor. Hoda’s courage to take time off for her family and her transparency in discussing the challenges she faced has only strengthened her connection with her audience.

As she continues to balance her personal life with her successful career, Hoda Kotb proves that it’s okay to prioritize the people and things that matter most. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that success isn’t just about professional accomplishments but also about finding fulfillment and happiness in every aspect of life.

Through it all, Hoda Kotb has shown that even in the face of adversity, we can find strength, resilience, and the courage to make difficult decisions. Her return to “Today” symbolizes her commitment to both her family and her fans, and her journey continues to inspire millions.

It’s been a month since Hoda Kotb left Today and the TV personality has no regrets about making the big career move.

Hoda, 60, chatted with Entertainment Tonight’s Kevin Frazier at the 2025 Super Bowl and could not wipe the smile off her face while sharing an update on her life.

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“I woke up on the very first day after I had made my decision on that Monday at 4:15, and I have to tell you everything seemed right,” Hoda said. “My little girl ran down the stairs, and she looked at me, and she goes, ‘You are here.’ I go, ‘Yes, I am.’ So, right decision, confirmed. Savannah and Craig are crushing it. Jenna and all of her friends, I don’t even know what friend I like better. But I’m enjoying watching them. It’s been beautiful.”

Hoda Kotb ‘Thought About’ Jenna Bush Hager Before Deciding to Leave ‘Today’

Hoda seemed like she had a blast at the Super Bowl, posing for photos with several celebrities like Kevin Costner and Harry Connick Jr. while in New Orleans for the festivities. Her fans have enjoyed seeing her have fun since departing the talk show.

Hoda’s final Today episode was on January 10. Craig Melvin took over her role as Savannah Guthrie’s morning coanchor on January 13. Still, fans can expect to see Hoda making appearances on NBC in the future after she signed a new contract with the network.

“Naturally saying goodbye is somewhat bittersweet because it’s end of an era for her, but she does feel ready for the change,” an insider told Closer last month of Hoda’s departure from the show. “And it’s not like she’s burnt any bridges, the door will always be open for her, possibly even for the occasional cameo. Not that she’s got any intention of going back; she’s ready for this new chapter. That being said, she will miss the people a lot.”

Michael Loccisano/Getty Images

Her work life has not slowed down at all, as the broadcaster already teased an upcoming project with Joanna Gaines. While it’s not yet clear what exactly the project is, many are hoping it is home improvement related, since Hoda just moved into a new home in the suburbs.

“Remember i was talking about repotting—- gotta take first steps….We have something fun cooking! Come along on the great adventure…..Stay tunedI love @joannagaines,” Hoda captioned a series of Instagram photos with Joanna, 46, on February 5.

And of course, Hoda has been spending more time with her two daughters, Haley and Hope, since leaving the show that made her a household name.

“She has so many wonderful friends on the show, and the reality is she won’t see most of them anymore,” the insider said. “She is going to take a breather but it won’t be some long break, she’s already got a new project in the works to keep her interest.”

“Her big focus will be her daughters, but she’s not going to be sitting home twiddling her thumbs when they’re busy with school,” the source said. “She still wants to work, but it will be a nice relief to not be up and out of the house every day before the sun’s up.”