TV Legend Henry Winkler Makes Bold Statement About Hoda Kotb's 'Today' Departure

Hoda Kotb announced on Sept. 26 that she will be leaving Today after over years as co-host of the morning show, saying “it was time for me to turn the page at 60, and to try something new.”

The announcement shocked fans and colleagues alike, and weeks later, people are still reacting strongly to the news, including television legend Henry Winkler .

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The Happy Days alum appeared on Today on Oct. 15, and before his conversation with Kotb and co-host Jenna Bush Hager began, he took the time to address Kotb’s departure directly.

“Before I go any further, I want to say this. I know that a lot of people have sat here. There are a lot of guests that come through this show that you have been doing for a long time. You two make each guest feel like they are the only guest,” the Barry star said.

Winkler continued, telling Kotb that “America is going to miss you. Thank you for always making me welcome.” He then addressed both Kotb and Bush Hager, saying “the two of you have a chemistry that is going to be very difficult to fill. That is the truth.”

Always one for levity, Bush Hager then teased “well, if you want a job, there’s one opening up.”

There has been a lot of speculation about who will replace Kotb after she departs the show in early 2025, with some fans hinting strongly that they’d like a certain NBC personality to fill her shoes.

After the official Instagram account for Today with Hoda and Jenna revealed that rapper and Olympics correspondent Snoop Dogg would be joining the program's fourth hour for special guest host duties, fans couldn’t get enough of the news.

“Well, now that Hoda is leaving the show, her only [replacement] can be Snoop 😇♥️,” wrote one fan on Instagram, while another agreed, saying “I love him! He’s the sweetest guy. ❤️.”

Next: Al Roker Makes Bold Statement About Hoda Kotb's Exit From ‘Today’