It’s the end of an era at NBC as Hoda Kotb officially signed off from *Today* during her final episode.
After nearly 17 years as a beloved anchor on the show, Hoda made her departure public back in September, announcing her plans to retire from the *Today* family.
In December, she revealed the date of her final show, and this morning, Hoda tearfully said goodbye to the viewers, her colleagues,
and the team that had been part of her journey for almost two decades.
Hoda’s departure marks the end of a remarkable chapter for both her and the *Today* show.
Known for her warmth, charm, and candid nature, she became a household name, a friend to millions who tuned in every weekday morning.
During her final moments on air, she expressed her deep gratitude for the outpouring of support she had received over the years.
As Hoda wrapped up the 8 am hour for the last time, she emotionally thanked everyone who had been part of her incredible journey. “Can I say thank you to every person who came out here?” she said, her voice filled with emotion. “I read your cards. I got your bracelets. I got the scarves you crocheted. I got everything. I want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
Her colleagues also shared their heartfelt tributes, with Savannah Guthrie, a longtime co-anchor, praising Hoda’s dedication to the things that truly matter in life. “She’s so special it’s almost beyond description,” Savannah said, her voice filled with admiration. “She’s about what matters,” she added, highlighting Hoda’s ability to stay grounded and focused on the important things in life.
As Hoda prepares to step away from her role as co-anchor, Craig Melvin will take over her spot alongside Savannah Guthrie during the show’s 7 and 8 am hours. While Hoda’s absence will certainly be felt by fans of the show, she made it clear that this isn’t the end of her presence on *Today*.
**What’s Next for Hoda Kotb?**
Though Hoda is leaving her full-time hosting position, she won’t be disappearing from NBC altogether. In an interview with *Page Six*, Hoda shared her excitement about the next chapter of her career, revealing that she had signed a deal that would allow her to stay on in a smaller role. Hoda will continue to contribute exclusive interviews for *Today* and will also take on a new role as a brand ambassador for NBC at the upcoming Olympics.
“I think it’ll be kind of a Snoop-ish role,” Hoda said, referencing the position that rapper Snoop Dogg held during the Paris Olympics last summer. Hoda explained that she will be supporting the team in a more behind-the-scenes capacity, contributing when needed, and attending events like the Olympics. She expressed excitement for the change, emphasizing that she’s looking forward to taking on a role that allows her to be a “supporting character” in an already well-established team.
In addition to her work with *Today*, Hoda will continue her successful podcast, *Making Space*, which she described as something she truly enjoys. “I want to do my ‘Making Space’ podcast, which I love so much,” she said, looking forward to spending more time on this project. Hoda also hinted that she would be making occasional appearances on Jenna Bush Hager’s segment of *Today*, ensuring that her loyal fans will still get a glimpse of her on the show.
Despite rumors that she was leaving due to a contract dispute, Hoda clarified that her decision to step back was not financially motivated. “This job is amazing and I don’t do it because I get a paycheck every other Thursday. That’s not why. Because then you’re only happy on every other Thursday,” Hoda explained. “I do it because I love it. And I think it never has been a money thing for me.”
For 17 years, Hoda and her viewers shared an unbreakable bond, one that transcended the usual anchor-audience relationship. Hoda’s infectious personality and sincerity earned her a place in the hearts of millions. As she moves into this next chapter, her fans can rest assured that this isn’t goodbye forever. Hoda will continue to be part of the *Today* family, with exciting appearances and new projects on the horizon.
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