Hoda Kotb is embracing a new chapter in her life after her final appearance on the *Today* show,
marking the end of an era after nearly 30 years at NBC. On January 13,
the 60-year-old broadcaster took to social media to share her excitement for the future, posting a positive quote about new beginnings.
The quote, which she shared on Instagram, read: “And suddenly, you know… it’s time to start something new and trust the magic of new beginnings.”
In her caption, Kotb celebrated the changes ahead, offering a shout-out to her colleagues Craig Melvin and Savannah Guthrie,
as well as Jenna Bush Hager and her rotating guests on *Today With Jenna & Friends*.
She also included herself in the celebration, writing, “Here’s to everyone starting fresh… and to me! Let’s do this!” Her words reflect a sense of optimism as she steps into a new phase of life, after bidding farewell to the morning show that made her a household name.
Kotb’s departure from *Today* had been anticipated since September 2024, when she made the decision to leave the show. Her decision was motivated by a desire to focus more on her family, particularly her two young daughters, Haley and Hope.
After more than two decades at NBC, Kotb announced that Craig Melvin, 45, would be stepping in to fill her role. Melvin, who had been with NBC for several years, expressed his excitement about the new opportunity, calling it “a lifetime of blessings.”
On her final day, Kotb was emotional as she said her goodbyes to her colleagues, including Guthrie, with whom she has shared a special bond over the years. “Savannah, oh my God, you’re my person,” Kotb said, praising Guthrie for always showing up for everyone. She also expressed her excitement for Melvin, telling him, “Craig, I’m so happy for you. You’ve earned this, you own this, and come Monday at 7 o’clock a.m., I am gonna be dead asleep. But you’re gonna be fantastic. You’re gonna bring it home. Craig, you’re gonna be so good. You and Savannah are gonna be magic.”
The emotional moment was followed by a video message from Kotb, which aired on Monday’s episode of *Today*.
In the video, Kotb congratulated Melvin on his new role, writing him a heartfelt letter that was read aloud by Guthrie, who discovered the letter in the studio.
Melvin, clearly touched by the gesture, was overcome with emotion as he received the support of his family during the broadcast.
Kotb’s decision to leave *Today* was a significant one, and she had been weighing it for some time. In a letter she shared in the fall of 2024, Kotb revealed that her 60th birthday celebration had served as a turning point.
The milestone made her realize that her career at NBC had been incredibly meaningful, but it was time to shift her focus toward her family. “I saw it all so clearly,” she wrote.
“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.”
Despite stepping away from *Today*, Kotb made it clear that she would continue to be a part of the NBC family.
“I will miss you all desperately, but I’m ready and excited,” she wrote, expressing her gratitude for her long tenure at the network.
Kotb’s departure comes at a time when Melvin is poised to take on a leading role at *Today*, and the show will see a fresh dynamic with a rotating cast of guest hosts joining Jenna Bush Hager on her new show.
For Kotb, the next chapter is one of relaxation and personal growth. As part of her newfound freedom, she jokingly posted a photo of her phone with the alarm turned off on Instagram, teasing her followers with the message: “No alarm…whaaaaaaaattttt???” This marks the beginning of a new routine for Kotb, who has dedicated decades of her life to early morning broadcasting.
While her departure from *Today* leaves a void, Kotb’s legacy on the show will undoubtedly remain. She has been an integral part of the show’s success for many years, and her positive attitude and warm demeanor have earned her a special place in the hearts of viewers.
As Kotb embarks on this new journey, fans are eager to see what’s next for the beloved broadcaster.
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