In an emotional and heartwarming moment, Kathie Lee Gifford made a surprise appearance on *Today* to bid farewell to her longtime friend and co-host, 

Hoda Kotb, on her final day at the show. Their bond, which has been built over years of friendship and shared experiences,

was evident as Gifford appeared on set, bringing both joy and nostalgia to the occasion.

As Kotb prepared for her departure from *Today*, a moment that was filled with both excitement and sadness, Gifford took to the stage to celebrate their time together,

sharing heartfelt words and revealing a personal update that left fans and her co-workers alike surprised.

Kathie Lee Gifford’s unexpected visit to the *Today* show was the highlight of Hoda Kotb’s final day on the show, leaving both the audience and Kotb herself in tears.

The two women, who shared a long-running and beloved partnership on the show for many years, shared laughs, memories, and a few sentimental moments during their reunion.

Kotb, who has been a co-host on *Today* since 2007, has had a successful and meaningful run with the show, and her departure marked the end of an era for the program. G

ifford, who was her co-host for nearly a decade from 2008 to 2019, returned to the show to reminisce about their time together and offer her best wishes to Kotb as she transitions into the next phase of her life.

The reunion was filled with humor, warmth, and shared experiences. Kotb’s eyes welled with tears as Gifford told her how proud she was of her, and the two exchanged stories from their years of working together.

It was clear that their connection went beyond the workplace, with both women expressing their love and admiration for one another.

While the emotional reunion was heartwarming, Gifford also took the opportunity to share a personal update that shocked fans and even her closest friends.

In a candid moment, Gifford revealed that she had made the decision to stop drinking wine, marking a significant change in her lifestyle.

“I’ve been really focusing on taking care of myself and making choices that are better for me,” Gifford explained. “It’s been a journey of self-discovery, and I’ve realized that I don’t need wine anymore. It’s part of a larger shift in how I’m living.”

This revelation caught many by surprise, as Gifford has been known for her love of wine, often joking about it during her time on *Today* and sharing moments of enjoying a glass with Kotb on air.

The two women’s playful banter, which included plenty of wine-related jokes, became a hallmark of their chemistry on the show. But now, Gifford’s decision to cut back on alcohol is part of her commitment to improving her health and well-being.

Fans and colleagues alike reacted with support and admiration for Gifford’s decision. While she acknowledged that the transition might not be easy, Gifford expressed a sense of pride in making the choice to prioritize her health and to embrace this new chapter in her life.

Hoda Kotb’s departure from *Today* marks the end of a significant chapter in her career. Having been part of the *Today* family for over a decade, Kotb’s presence on the show was felt by viewers and co-workers alike. Her warmth, humor, and relatability made her a beloved figure in the morning TV landscape.

For Gifford, returning to *Today* for Kotb’s final day was a moment of reflection on their shared history. The two women have been through many milestones together, and their bond was evident as they reminisced about their time on air. Their friendship, which extended far beyond the studio, has remained strong despite Gifford’s departure from the show in 2019.

“Thank you for being my best friend,” Kotb said to Gifford, holding back tears. “You’ve been such an important part of my journey, and I’ll always be grateful for everything we shared.”

For viewers, the reunion between Gifford and Kotb was a reminder of the power of friendship and the deep connections that can form through years of collaboration.

Their time together on *Today* was filled with laughter, heartfelt moments, and a unique dynamic that resonated with audiences across the country.

As Kotb transitions into her next adventure, Gifford is also embarking on a new chapter of her own. While she may no longer be a regular fixture on *Today*, Gifford continues to pursue her passion for storytelling, writing, and creative projects. Her decision to take a step back from alcohol is just one of the many ways she’s embracing a healthier lifestyle and setting an example for others.

For Kotb, the future remains bright as she steps away from the show to explore new opportunities. Her fans will surely miss her presence on *Today*, but they can take comfort in knowing that she’s leaving with the support of her loved ones, including Gifford, who will continue to cheer her on from the sidelines.

Their reunion was a beautiful reminder of the bond they share, and fans can only hope that the two women will continue to support each other, whether on-screen or off, as they navigate the next chapters in their lives.