‘Painful’: Hoda Kotb is leaving TODAY show

NEW YORK (WJW) – Hoda Kotb has announced she will leave the TODAY show early next year.

She made the announcement on the show on Thursday morning.

The journalist shared her decision in a heartfelt letter to the TODAY staff, she said.

“As I write this, my heart is all over the map,” Kotb wrote. “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. I love you and it’s time for me to leave the show.”

Kotb has been a prominent figure at NBC News for nearly three decades, starting her career with “Dateline” and later co-hosting the fourth hour of TODAY with Kathie Lee Gifford and then Jenna Bush Hager.

Reflecting on her lengthy tenure, she noted, “My time at NBC has been the longest professional love affair of my life. But only because you’ve been beside me on this twenty-six-year adventure.” She emphasized her gratitude for the relationships she has built, recalling, “I’m picturing your faces and your families and all the ways you’ve lifted me up and inspired me. That’s my heart singing.”

Kotb expressed deep appreciation for her colleagues at TODAY, calling Savannah Guthrie her “rock” and referring to Jenna Bush Hager as her “ride-or-die.” She also highlighted her longstanding friendship with Al Roker and affection for other members of the TODAY family, stating, “I will miss each and every one of you at TODAY desperately.”

Kotb has not said what is next in her career.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW.