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<p id="content-paragraph-2"><b>Hoda Kotb deeply touched the hearts of TODAY viewers on Thursday, September 26, when she made the heartfelt announcement about her departure from the beloved morning show. After an impressive 17 years on the air, the esteemed journalist has decided that it’s time for her to embark on a new and exciting journey. While the news is bittersweet, fans are eager to understand the underlying reasons behind Hoda’s decision to leave TODAY, a program that has been a significant part of her life and career.

Insights into Hoda Kotb’s Departure from TODAY

Hoda shared her decision on Thursday, September 26, announcing her departure from TODAY after 17 remarkable years with the show. In a heartfelt and lengthy letter addressed to her co-workers and fellow anchors, which the network subsequently shared, she expressed her mixed emotions about this life-changing decision.

“As I write this, my heart is all over the map,” the journalist candidly shared. “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’s words resonate with many who have followed her journey on the show, reflecting a genuine connection with her audience.

Hoda then took a moment to reflect on her extensive and fulfilling career with NBC, recalling her decade-long tenure at Dateline before she joined the TODAY team. She reminisced about the significant experiences and milestones that shaped her professional life, highlighting the deep bonds she formed along the way with her colleagues and viewers.

“My time at NBC has been the longest professional love affair of my life,” she poignantly continued. “But only because you’ve been beside me on this 26-year adventure. Looking back, the math is nuts. Twenty-six years at NBC News — Ten years at Dateline, seven on the seven o’clock hour, sixteen on the ten o’clock hour.” Hoda’s heartfelt reflection underscores her commitment and passion for journalism, making her decision to leave even more profound.

Hoda Kotb has announced that she is leaving TODAY early next year. pic.twitter.com/sXuRsDbNnI

— TODAY (@TODAYshow) September 26, 2024

Understanding the Reasons Behind Hoda Kotb’s Decision to Leave TODAY

In her emotional letter, Hoda revealed that she had been “weighing this decision for quite a while” regarding her departure from the show. The acclaimed television anchor cited her forthcoming 60th birthday celebration as a significant “shift” in her life, prompting her to reassess her priorities and dedicate more time to her children, Haley Joy and Hope Catherine, whom she shares with ex Joel Schiffman. This shift in focus reflects her commitment to family, a value that resonates deeply with her fans.

“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,” Hoda explained. “I will miss you all desperately, but I’m ready and excited.” Her heartfelt sentiments highlight the importance of balancing personal and professional responsibilities, a struggle many can relate to.

Timeline of Hoda Kotb’s Departure from TODAY

In her heartfelt announcement, Hoda emphasized that she was not leaving TODAY immediately. Instead, the cherished television personality will “be working through the beginning of 2025.” Her last day on air for TODAY is set for Friday, January 10, 2025. During this poignant farewell, she will be joined by a live audience celebrating her illustrious career, complete with goodbye signs and heartfelt prerecorded farewell messages from her co-stars.

Future Plans for Hoda Kotb After Leaving TODAY

As for what lies ahead for Hoda, it remains unclear whether she will join another television program after her chapter with TODAY concludes. In her heartfelt letter, the beloved NBC personality assured fans that she intends to “remain a part of the NBC family,” indicating that her journey with the network is far from over.

“I’ll be around. How could I not?” Hoda concluded. “Family is family and you all will always be a part of mine.” This sentiment highlights the enduring connections she has formed over the years with both her colleagues and her audience, a testament to her warm and engaging personality.

In 2025, Page Six reported that Hoda signed a deal with NBC to “contribute exclusive interviews and cover the next two Olympics.” This exciting development suggests that her journey in broadcasting will continue, providing her fans with even more opportunities to connect with her in the future.