Hoda Kotb tearfully said goodbye to The Today Show after 17 years of co-hosting, surrounded by her co-anchors Savannah Guthrie and Jenna Bush Hager. In an emotional farewell, Kotb expressed her gratitude to the viewers, the show’s crew, NBC, and her co-hosts, who had supported her throughout her journey.
Before her final sign-off, Kotb gave a heartfelt shoutout to her colleagues, including Al Roker, Guthrie, and Craig Melvin. With tears in her eyes, she shared how difficult it was to express her emotions, saying, “I’m not even able to articulate it because I’m a mess most of the time, but I just want to say thanks.”
Kotb also praised Carson Daly, calling him “the secret sauce” of the show. “Without you, the show doesn’t hum,” she added, acknowledging the special energy Daly brought every day.
She recalled how Al Roker was the first person she met on set and became her first friend, offering support when she was ill. “Al, you’re my first friend here, the first person I met. When I got sick, you were the first person who walked into the room and said I was going to be okay,” she said.
Moving on to Savannah Guthrie, Kotb expressed deep appreciation for her co-anchor, calling her a rock in times of difficulty. “When your brother died, it was this girl. When I was going through stuff with Hope, it was this girl. She’s in the room. She’s always in the room and I love you,” Kotb said, emotionally honoring their bond.
As for Craig Melvin, Kotb celebrated his success and praised him for earning his new role. “Craig, I mean, I’m so happy for you. You earned this. You own this,” she said. “You’re going to be fantastic. You and Savannah are going to be magic.”
Kotb announced her departure from The Today Show in September, explaining that her focus is now on her family and her children. Her heartfelt goodbye marked the end of an era on the show, with her leaving behind a legacy of warmth, kindness, and professionalism.