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Hoda Kotb is on the brink of a transformative journey beyond her long-standing role on the TODAY show. After nearly two decades as a beloved co-anchor, the esteemed TV personality expressed her heartfelt sentiments in a poignant letter addressed to the TODAY crew in September. In this letter, she articulated her future aspirations and plans. Shortly after, she co-hosted the highly anticipated annual NBC Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, prompting speculation about her potential exit from the TODAY show. This leads many to wonder: Is Hoda truly departing from the TODAY show, and if so, what are the reasons behind her decision?

Hollywood Life is dedicated to providing the most up-to-date insights and developments regarding Hoda’s future with the TODAY show, ensuring fans and followers are well-informed about her career trajectory.

Understanding Hoda Kotb’s Decision to Leave the TODAY Show

In her heartfelt letter to her colleagues, Hoda Kotb candidly revealed that she is indeed leaving the TODAY show, marking a significant milestone in her broadcasting career.

“I know I’m making the right decision, but it’s a painful one,” Hoda expressed. “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. My time at NBC has been the longest professional love affair of my life, and that’s only because you’ve been beside me on this twenty-six-year adventure.” Hoda’s emotional words reflect the deep connections she has forged during her time at the network.

This beloved NBC personality has dedicated an impressive 26 years to the network, with a decade of her career spent on Dateline before she became a staple on the TODAY show. Her journey has been marked by numerous memorable moments and significant contributions to the world of television journalism.

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

— TODAY (@TODAYshow) September 26, 2024

“I’ve been weighing this decision for quite a while – Am I truly ready?” Hoda reflected in her letter. “But, my 60th 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.” These contemplations highlight her desire to prioritize family while embarking on this new chapter of her life.

Hoda shares her daughters, Haley Joy and Hope Catherine, with her former partner, Joel Schiffman. Her commitment to her family is evident as she navigates this transition.

“I will miss you all desperately, but I’m ready and excited,” she concluded, leaving her colleagues with a heartfelt message of gratitude and anticipation for the future.

Exploring the Reasons Behind Hoda Kotb’s Departure from the TODAY Show

Hoda cited her age and the desire for personal growth as the primary reasons for her departure from the show. Following the announcement of her decision, she made an emotional appearance on a TODAY episode, sharing her reflections.

“I realized that it was time for me to turn the page at 60, and to try something new,” Hoda pointed out. “I remembered standing outside looking at this beautiful bunch of people with these gorgeous signs, and I thought, ‘This is what the top of the wave feels like for me.’ And I thought it can’t get better, and I decided that this is the right time for me to kind of move on.” Her perspective signifies a poignant understanding of timing and self-discovery in her career.

Timeline for Hoda Kotb’s Departure from the TODAY Show

Hoda has clarified that she isn’t officially leaving the show until next year. In her letter, she expressed her intention to continue working through the early part of 2025, allowing ample time for discussions and farewells.

“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,” she noted, reassuring fans and colleagues alike. She emphasized that she will remain part of the “NBC family” in the future. “But one thing I know for sure right now is this: everything’s going to be just fine. … I’ll be around. How could I not? Family is family and you all will always be a part of mine,” she assured her audience.

Future Plans for Hoda Kotb After Her Departure from the TODAY Show

While Hoda has committed to staying connected with the NBC “family,” the specifics of her next steps remain uncertain. Many are eager to discover whether Hoda plans to embark on a new television venture or pursue other passions outside of broadcasting.