What Was the Real Reason Behind Hoda Kotb, 60, Leaving the 'Today' Show?

Renowned broadcaster Hoda Kotb's exit from a popular talk show has stirred mixed reactions. However, it's the curiosity surrounding her reasons for stepping back that is truly sparking conversation across the internet.

Journalist Hoda Kotb revealed her decision to step down from her position as co-anchor on the "Today" show, sparking widespread discussion among online communities.

The TV personality, who co-anchored alongside Savannah Guthrie for over five years, openly reflected on her journey during the live daily broadcast on September 26, 2024. Her full statement was later posted on the "Today" show's Instagram page.

"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. [...] 'Today' and its amazing people — all of you — never waver. You always weather change with grace and guts," she expressed.

Hoda highlighted her 26-year career at NBC News in a letter, including ten years with "Dateline," seven years on the 7 a.m. hour, and sixteen years on the 10 a.m. hour.

The public figure shared that she had been considering this decision for some time, questioning if she was truly ready. However, her 60th birthday celebration felt like a turning point, confirming that it was time to move forward.

She reflected on her meaningful broadcast career of nearly three decades and emphasized the importance of dedicating more time to her daughters and mother.

While she will miss everyone dearly, Hoda expressed excitement for what lies ahead. She reassured viewers that she will continue working through early 2025, ensuring plenty of time to discuss future plans.

Hoda affirmed that the "Today" show and its dedicated team would remain resilient, regardless of changes. The news anchor also expressed her gratitude for the NBC family and promised to stay connected, as they will always hold a special place in her heart.

The Egyptian-born broadcaster has faced significant personal challenges throughout her remarkable career. She was diagnosed with breast cancer, and unfortunately, the treatment left her unable to conceive.

Adding to her struggles, her two-year marriage to tennis coach Burzis Kanga ended in divorce less than a year after she recovered. At that point in her life, she had already given up the hope of becoming a mother one day.

Hoda shared that becoming a mother was always a dream of hers, but when things didn't go as planned, she had to accept that it might not happen.

Despite trying to move on, she felt an emotional void whenever others asked if she had children. The author often imagined switching careers, considering roles like a schoolteacher or running a summer camp.

However, she eventually fulfilled her dream of motherhood when she adopted her first child, daughter Haley Joy, in February 2017. The joyful new mom announced the arrival of her newborn on the "Today" show, sharing the heartwarming news with her colleagues.

Less than 10 days after bringing home her newborn daughter, Hoda had already adjusted to the routine of bottle feedings, diaper changes, and endless laundry.

She spent her days in her Upper West Side penthouse, embracing the simple moments of caring for her baby. Despite her many life experiences, she found herself discovering a new depth of love she hadn't known before.

In April 2019, Hoda expanded her family by adopting another baby girl, Hope Catherine. She shared the joyful news on the "Today" show, mentioning that Haley had warmly welcomed her role as a big sister.

Four years later in March 2023, the family faced a scare when Hope experienced a health issue that led to a week-long stay in the hospital following a few days in the ICU.

Hoda had to step away from work to handle the emergency, and upon her return, she expressed deep gratitude that her daughter was back home and on the mend.

In May of that year, Hoda gave an update on her 3-year-old, mentioning that Hope was improving and doing much better. She acknowledged that the recovery would be a longer journey but remained positive about her progress.

Hoda shares her two daughters with her former fiancé, Joel Schiffman, to whom she was engaged from 2019 until 2022. As a single parent, Hoda currently lives with her two daughters in a suburban home, having announced plans to move from her New York City apartment in March 2024.

Moving from the city to the suburbs was a tough choice for Hoda, as she had lived in the same apartment since adopting her daughters in 2017 and 2019.

However, she believed the move would offer her children new experiences, like feeling the grass beneath their feet, playing in a yard, and riding bikes in a safe, small-town setting.

Turning 60 led Hoda to reflect on her life, particularly the profound lessons motherhood has taught her. She shared that being a mom showed her that anything is possible and made her realize she is "good enough," despite her flaws.

Her daughters have taught her to find humor in life's challenges and affirmed that she was always meant to be a mother. Having become a mother later in life, Hoda feels that her children now deserve much of her time, which was a key factor in her decision to step away from the "Today" show.

However, reports suggest another possible reason for Hoda's departure. Allegedly, she left her lucrative $20 million-plus per year deal after NBC proposed a pay cut.

A veteran media executive noted that this is part of a broader trend, stating, "This is the age of the great resetting of TV news contracts. Everyone is getting their pay cut or their jobs eliminated." Since her departure announcement, social media users have actively discussed Hoda’s decision to leave the "Today" show.

"She made her millions. Now it's time to go spend them," said one user. Another remarked, "Well, no [one] can say the Democrat-owned media doesn't pay well. Hoda is worth 30 million dollars. I would quit too. There is so much more to do in life."

"This is absolutely cringeworthy," noted one person. Someone else exclaimed, "She's being pushed out! Good job Hoda!" One YouTube user expressed admiration for Kotb, writing, "I always liked Hoda. She [deserves] every bit of retirement and [to] enjoy her time with her children and her life. All the best."

One echoed the same sentiments, saying, "Your kids will love having more of you. And you will love your newfound freedom. Congratulations Hoda."

Hoda Kotb's journey has been filled with challenges, triumphs, and a deep love for her family. As she steps into a new chapter, she remains focused on what matters most — her daughters and the life they are building together.