Hoda Kotb announces departure from Today show, “I know I’m making the right decision”

After six years co-anchoring the Today Show, Hoda Kotb is stepping down.

In an emotional message to her “Today family”, Hoda announced that she would be departing from the show early next year. ” 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.”

Hoda has been employed at NBC for 26 years, spending ten years at Dateline, seven on the seven o’clock hour of NBC News, and sixteen years on the ten o’clock hour of NBC News.

In her heartfelt letter, Hoda thanked her colleagues and stated that her 60th birthday truly prompted her to make a shift in her life.

“I’ve been weighing this decision for quite a while – Am I truly ready? But, my sixtieth birthday celebration on the Plaza felt like a shift. Like a massive, joyful YES, you are! I saw it all so clearly: my broadcast career has been beyond meaningful, a new decade of my life lies ahead, and now my daughters and my mom need and deserve a bigger slice of my time pie. I will miss you all desperately, but I’m ready and excited.”

Although she did not fully address her next steps, Hoda stated that she will remain a part of the NBC Family. “Because I’ll be working through the beginning of 2025, there’s plenty of time to talk about what’s ahead for all of us. But one thing I know for sure right now is this: everything’s going to be just fine…. Happily and gratefully, I plan to remain a part of the NBC family, the longest work relationship I’ve been lucky enough to hold close to my heart. I’ll be around. How could I not? Family is family and you all will always be a part of mine.”

Many fans have already taken to social media thanking the longtime Today anchor for all she has done. “You will be missed… We love you”.

While the fate of the Today With Hoda & Jenna show is currently not known, fans can rest assured that they will see Hoda on their airways again.

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