Hoda Kotb, a beloved figure on NBC’s TODAY show, recently shared some news that has viewers wondering about her future with the program. While she is indeed planning to step back from her daily TODAY show duties, it’s not a complete farewell just yet, and it’s certainly not due to any negative reasons. So, why is Hoda Kotb leaving the TODAY show in 2024, and what exciting ventures await her?
In a heartfelt announcement made in late 2024, Kotb explained her decision to transition away from the daily grind of the TODAY show in 2025. The primary reason behind this significant life change is deeply personal and relatable: family. Hoda, who became a mother to her daughters Haley and Hope later in life, expressed a strong desire to dedicate more of her time to them. She movingly conveyed that she feels a finite amount of time with her children and wants to ensure she’s giving them the attention they deserve.
While Hoda Kotb is leaving the daily TODAY show, it’s important to clarify that she is not leaving the NBC family entirely. She reassured viewers that she will remain with NBC and will be present on the show past the beginning of 2025, indicating a gradual transition rather than an abrupt exit. This news brings relief to fans who worried about her complete departure from the network.
Furthermore, Hoda’s departure from the daily show is not a retirement from work, but rather a shift towards a new, exciting project that aligns with her personal passions. Kotb revealed in an interview that she is developing a wellness-focused project, potentially a smartphone app. This venture stems from her personal journey into wellness practices like breathwork, inspired by friends like Jenna Bush Hager and Maria Shriver. She envisions this project as something “fun and helpful,” aiming to share the stress-reducing and wellbeing-enhancing techniques she has learned.
The concept is still in its early stages, but it reflects Hoda’s ongoing desire for self-improvement and her interest in sharing beneficial practices with a wider audience. This new direction promises to be both personally fulfilling for Kotb and valuable for her fans interested in wellness and self-care.
Even colleagues like Jimmy Fallon have reacted to Hoda’s announcement with a mix of humor and genuine affection. Fallon, upon hearing the news, sent Kotb a funny card that read, “What the hell?” along with a bottle of wine, showcasing the close bonds she has formed during her 17 years at the TODAY show. His reaction mirrors the sentiments of many viewers who will undoubtedly miss her daily presence.
In conclusion, Hoda Kotb is leaving the TODAY show in 2025 primarily to dedicate more time to her family, a decision that resonates with many. However, this is not a goodbye to NBC or to her professional endeavors. Instead, it marks the beginning of a new chapter focused on wellness, allowing her to explore her passion for wellbeing and continue to connect with her audience in meaningful ways. While her daily presence on TODAY will be missed, fans can look forward to supporting her exciting new wellness project and appreciate her continued presence within the NBC family.
