logo
"Today Show" hosts | Source: Youtube/Today
"Today Show" hosts | Source: Youtube/Today

'Embarrassment' & 'Terrible': Hoda Kotb's 'Today Show' Exit Outrages Viewers for a Particular Reason

Roshanak Hannani
Sep 27, 2024
12:40 P.M.

Hoda Kotb’s departure from the "Today Show" has sparked intense reactions, with some fans making a shocking request regarding the rest of the anchors.

Advertisement

On Thursday, September 26, Hoda Kotb announced her decision to leave the "Today Show." While many people expressed sadness over her departure, the online response quickly shifted. A significant number of viewers began to criticize Kotb's co-hosts.

Advertisement

After 26 years at NBC, Kotb revealed that turning 60 and reflecting on her future played a pivotal role in her decision to leave. Her heartfelt message, both on live television and in a letter to her colleagues, expressed gratitude for her time at NBC.

"I know I’m making the right decision, but it’s a painful one," the host said in her letter to the staff. She emphasized that family, particularly her daughters, Haley and Hope, factored heavily into this choice, adding, "They deserve a bigger piece of my time pie."

Advertisement

Although her co-hosts were aware of her plans, everyone got emotional on Thursday's episode. However, something surprising happened online after the episode aired.

While many users focused on Kotb’s illustrious career and her legacy, tons of viewers began to express their dismay at Kotb's co-hosts, Savannah Guthrie and Jenna Bush Hager. They took to social media comment sections with strongly worded opinions. One YouTube user demanded, "Take savanna and Jenna with you [sic]."

Advertisement

Another user shared their disappointment with NBC’s decision and added, "Her contract was up and NBC didn't want to pay her demand.... That's why she's leaving! She's the ONLY reason I watched the show! Savannah doesn't even hold a candle to Hoda! Hoda was the best and Savannah is terrible! I'll never watch the TODAY SHOW, the light has gone out!😢 [sic]."

More viewers took aim at the co-hosts. "And everyone cried, Savannah who everyone claimed was not friends a few months ago, they are all acting as if she died, very competitive, two faced woman, all trying to out do the other, FAKE [sic]." one commenter noted.

Advertisement

Another fan showed their displeasure with Guthrie’s continued presence on the show, saying, "I know it is because of Savannah … She should be the one leaving. I love 💕 Hoda … she is one of the best anchors there… ❤️😢 [sic]."

One Facebook user lamented, "No, she’s the best! Jenna should go! Savannah could go [sic]!", while another wrote, "Now, can we PLEASE get rid of Savannah [sic]?". Similarly, a fan asked, "Can Jenna go too?? Pretty please??🙏 I wish it was Jenna going instead [sic]."

Advertisement

Accusations of competition and mistrust surfaced, with one commenter expressing doubt over the motives of Guthrie and Bush Hager, "I hope this is really what you want. Jenna has just been sitting back waiting on your spot. Don’t trust her or Savannah. You will be missed [sic]."

One of our AmoMama readers took the comments a step further and wrote, "Take savanna and Please please take Jena she’s such an embarrassment who cares if she doesn’t wear underwear [sic]."

Advertisement

Along with the wave of negative comments aimed at Guthrie and Bush Hager were well-wishes for Kotb from our readers. One wrote, "It’s sad to see you go but you have made the right choice. Our kids grow way too fast so enjoy every moment with them! 🌸👍🏻[sic]." Another added, "Best wishes Hoda! You will be missed! So happy you have made this decision [sic]!"

Advertisement

Some shared personal experiences, such as one viewer who remembered a special moment with Kotb. She wrote, "Congratulations Hoda on 17 wonderful years! What I’ll remember most this summer when you took the time on the plaza to speak to my my granddaughters from Oceanside, LI. [...] This made their day and also those of us watching the Today Show on TV. Thank you Hoda [sic]!"

Advertisement

Other AmoMama fans celebrated Hoda Kotb’s choice and shared heartfelt sentiments. "Great decision for you and your family. Thank you for 17 years, a class act [sic]," one added.

Another AmoMama reader wrote, "So happy for you! Although the show won’t be the same without you. You are the best news reporter [sic].💗"

Advertisement

Similarly, many more appreciated the decision to prioritize her family, "Hoda you are doing the right thing. Life is short. Make the best time of memories with your children. After so many years, you’ll be missed on NBC. Best wishes [sic]." and "It's truly a blessing to be able to retire and to enjoy whatever life we're given! Enjoy your beautiful family! Peace and blessings to all [sic]!"

One commenter reflected on the passage of time, "Congratulations 🎉....one thing we all have learn is time is a theif. That is great that she is in a position to make that decision. I have enjoyed her....she has a good spirit to her[sic]."

Hoda Kotb on the "Today Show" on September 26, 204 | Source: Youtube/TODAY

Hoda Kotb on the "Today Show" on September 26, 204 | Source: Youtube/TODAY

Amid all these reactions, Kotb’s career at NBC remains the highlight of her legacy. She has been a beloved figure on the network for nearly three decades.

Advertisement

She started at "Dateline" and became a fixture on the "Today Show," co-hosting various segments, most notably alongside Kathie Lee Gifford and Bush Hager, who has been with NBC since 2009.

Guthrie, who joined the "Today Show" in 2011, currently serves as co-anchor and NBC’s chief legal correspondent.

Advertisement
Advertisement
Related posts

5 Viral News This Week: Valerie Bertinelli & Boyfriend Criticized, Oprah's Health Scare, Katie Holme's Topless Shoot, & More

June 14, 2024

'Outfit Is Ridiculous': Gwen Stefani, 54, Heavily Criticized for Tattered Tartan & Fishnet Outfit during a Live Show

July 25, 2024

Must-See Pics of This Week: Melissa McCarthy's Fit Figure, Roseanne Barr's Blonde Dreads, Terry Crews' 5 Kids & More

June 14, 2024

'Hardly Recognized Her': Sandra Bullock Looks 'Different' after Turning 60 in Latest Appearance That Sparked Buzz

August 13, 2024

Simone Biles Sparks Reactions after Revealing Her Thoughts on Having Kids with Husband Jonathan Owens

August 07, 2024

Fans React to 'The Partridge Family' Star Danny Bonaduce's Graying Beard & Short Hair at 65

August 15, 2024

Tori Spelling, Mom of 5, Gets Slammed for What Her Youngest Son, 7, Isn't Doing by Himself

August 29, 2024

Julia Roberts, 56, Debuts Shorter Layered Haircut Just after Changing Hair Color: Pics of Her New Stunning Look

July 11, 2024

'She Needs Money': Simone Biles' Birth Mom, Who Gave Her up as a Kid, Publicly Asks for Forgiveness & Faces Reaction

August 16, 2024

‘Not the Same Person’: Julia Roberts Debuts Light Blonde Hair That Is ‘Not for Her,’ and Fans Weigh In

June 20, 2024

Ringo Starr, 84, Cancels the Rest of US Tour After Announcing Illness

September 25, 2024

What to Know About Celine Dion's 2024 Olympics Performance: $2M for One Song or No Payment at All, Health Risks & More

July 29, 2024

'Surprising': Katie Holmes, 45, Rocks Natural Makeup & Belted Maxi Dress in Latest Outing, Sparking Comments

June 25, 2024

Angelina Jolie & Brad Pitt's Son Knox, 15, Towers over Mom in Rare Public Outing, Causing Buzz about His Look

July 09, 2024