Kotb has been part of the NBC network since 1998

TODAY co-anchor Hoda Kotb announced her departure from the beloved morning show through sobs during Thursday morning’s broadcast in a shocking shakeup.

Hoda was named permanent co-anchor of Today in January 2018 after longtime anchor Matt Lauer was fired for sexual misconduct.

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Hoda Kotb, seen during a Today broadcast in May 2023, has been with NBC for 26 years

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Hoda wipes away tears on Today during her departure announcementCredit: NBC

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Hoda and co-anchors on Today gathered after she announced her departureCredit: NBC
“So I was doing the math, and I realized I have spent 26 years at NBC – be cool, be cool,” Hoda started her announcement.

“I just turned 60, and it was such a monumental moment for me when I turned 60 years old…What does that decade mean?…And I realize it was time for me to turn the page at 60, and to try something new.”

Hoda continued, recalling a moment celebrating her birthday with her children as “what the top of the wave feels like for me.”

“I thought, it can’t get better. And I decided that this is the right time to move on.”

She noted the adoption of her children later in life and said they “deserve a bigger piece of my time pie.”

Hoda called the decision “the hardest thing in the world” and said she would “stay in the NBC family” but depart Today in early 2025.

She wrote a letter to staff on Thursday sharing her decision to leave.

After her on-air announcement, Hoda’s co-anchor Savannah Guthrie said, “We love you so much.”

“When you look around and see these tears, they’re love. You are so loved. I don’t think any of us can imagine this place without you,” Savannah continued.

“So it’s complicated because we love you so much and don’t want you to ever go.

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Today host Hoda Kotb holds back tears as she admits breast cancer diagnosis ‘killed her dream’ of ‘becoming pregnant’
“I am so proud of my friend. You have guts. For someone to leave at the top of their game, to leave something that’s wonderful, that you love, where it’s easy and comfortable and beautiful and fun and say, but I dream even bigger for myself.”

An emotional Al Roker also chimed in.

“You are the best. I’ve never known anyone like you, and I’ve known you forever,” he said.

Co-anchor Craig Melvin noted Kotb is “the same person” when the cameras shut off.

“You’re exactly like people see you in the morning, just the biggest heart. You’ve been the heart of this show for a long time, there’s no replacing that.”

Fellow Today host Dylan Dreyer posted a photo of her son being held by Hoda on Instagram.

“She comforts, she loves, she cares…it’s why we all love her,” Dreyer wrote.

“Way beyond her talent as an anchor, she’s the friend we all want and need. I love you Hoda and I applaud you for trusting your gut and making this next step in your life.

“You do everything with enthusiasm and I can’t wait to watch you soar!”

‘THE BEST PART’

Fans were stunned by the announcement – and quick to share their thoughts on social media.

“I’m crying so much right now,” one fan wrote on X.

“Hoda is like the glue on Today just like Al. She’s the best part,” another wrote.

“We have been blessed to get to know her as a part of Today. She will be missed. I appreciate that she has been a part of my life experience,” another fan said.

“I’ll her miss her. One of the good ones,” someone else chimed in.

“I love all of the rest of you but I extra love Hoda!!” another wrote.

“I’m in disbelief! Hoda we all love you too! You belong on the today. My heart can’t take this. But I do wish you the best,” someone else said.

“She is the best part of NBC!!!” another cried. “Go kill your next chapter and enjoy your beautiful girls!!!!”

NBC LEGACY

Hoda joined the NBC network in 1998 as a correspondent for Dateline.

She became a standout once paired with Kathie Lee Gifford in the 10 am hour of Today in 2008.

During her time on the show, Hoda was open about her battle with breast cancer and her fertility struggles.

Fans of the show then watched as she adopted her two daughters; first in 2017 and then in 2019.

She was also vocal about her daughter, Hope’s, scary medical crisis.

Hoda continued in the fourth hour after Jenna Bush Hager replaced Kathie Lee.

She was then named an interim co-anchor along with Savannah after Matt Lauer’s firing from the network in late 2017.

Hoda and Savannah became the first female-led duo to co-anchor Today since its premiere in 1952.

A recent highlight of her time on Today was the previously mentioned birthday surprise.

Hoda’s co-anchors shocked her with an hour-long celebration in August honoring her 60th birthday.

Previous interviewees stopped by to surprise Hoda, who was moved to tears.

After her departure from Today, Hoda will continue to contribute to the network on occasion in an unspecified role.

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Kotb behind the desk on Today in November 2023Credit: Getty Images – Getty

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Kotb shows off her beaming smile as Kacey Musgraves performs for the Today show’s concert series in MarchCredit: Getty Images – Getty

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Hoda announced her decision to leave Today during Thursday’s broadcastCredit: NBC