Hoda Kotb Cries on 'Today' Show after Interviewing Drew Brees about His $5m Louisiana Donation

Last Friday, “Today” show co-host, Hoda Kotb got emotional while interviewing New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees. The NFL star recently donated millions in the effort to assist with the coronavirus relief efforts.

While interviewing Brees, Kotb became emotional about New Orleans because the city held a special place in her heart. Crescent City has been hit hard by the pandemic.

Kotb, who has deep roots in New Orleans, spoke to Brees about his decision to donate $5 million to help feed Louisiana residents in need. The television personality couldn’t help but start crying.

Hoda Kotb promotes "Hoda: How I Survived War Zones, Bad Hair, Cancer, and Kathie Lee" at NBC Experience Store on July 22, 2011, in New York City | Photo: Cindy Ord/Getty Images

Guthrie comforts Kotb

The star apologized on-screen as she tried to compose herself. Her co-host, Savannah Guthrie, tried to console her by sharing that she knew it was all a lot to take in.

“Take a moment, I know it’s a lot”

Guthrie added: "Hoda, I'm so sorry, hon. Take a moment. It's a lot. I know where your heart is, my dear, I do." As the star took a moment to deal with the strain and anxiety caused by the worldwide outbreak, Guthrie took over by sharing what viewers could expect on the show.

Jenna moved by Hoda’s emotional breakdown

Kotb’s co-host on “Today with Hoda &Jenna,” Jenna Bush Hager was touched by the real emotions shown on the show. She took to Twitter where she wrote: This is the reason I love @hodakotb all heart, all compassion.”

"She’s crying for all of us"

Bush Hager noted that her co-star couldn’t help but be who she truly was. The star added: “As my aunt said: ‘her tears were for us all.’”

Kotb’s work in New Orleans

In the 90s, Kotb had worked and lived in New Orleans. She previously worked as an anchor and reporter for the city’s CBS affiliate from 1992 until 1998.

Working from home

Kotb hosts the “Today” show from its office in New York City, while Guthrie has been anchoring from home. Bush Hager is on a break to spend some quality time with her family.

Kotb works from the Today show studios

Kotb works at Studio 1A in Rockefeller Plaza. Most of the staff is currently working from home in an effort to practice social distancing amid the coronavirus pandemic.