Savannah Guthrie recalls emotional moment Hoda Kotb revealed to her about 'Today' exit: 'Heartbroken'

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: Savannah Guthrie vividly recalled the moment she learned her longtime 'Today' co-host and close friend Hoda Kotb was stepping away from the morning show.

In a recent interview, Guthrie, shared that Kotb called her while she was at an airport for an overseas wedding and she immediately sensed something was amiss.

"I said to my husband, 'Hoda wants to call me, and she knows I’m at the airport. This can’t be good'. I kind of had a feeling that it could be that," Guthrie recounted.

Savannah Guthrie's mixed emotions over Hoda Kotb’s departure

Though deeply saddened by Hoda Kotb’s exit, Savannah Guthrie also expressed admiration for her friend’s courage.

"That is so gutsy, to leave something you love at the height of your excellence and say, 'I’m dreaming this bigger dream for myself,'" she said.

Kotb revealed to Guthrie that she had turned 60 and felt ready for a change, stating that while she could continue on 'Today' for another decade, she wanted to take a risk, according to OK Magazine.

Guthrie, though "heartbroken", is "thrilled and proud" of Kotb for prioritizing her personal dreams.

Craig Melvin steps up

Despite the change, Savannah Guthrie reassured fans that the show remains in capable hands.

"Lucky [for] us that the perfect person was right there waiting in the wings. [Craig Melvin] has stepped into the role seamlessly," she said.

Meanwhile, Kotb, who shares daughters Haley and Hope with ex-fiance Joel Schiffman, is embracing her new chapter and focusing on family life.

Guthrie confirmed that Kotb is "really happy" with her decision to step away from the spotlight.

Did Hoda Kotb’s departure make Savannah Guthrie rethink her future?

When asked whether Hoda Kotb’s move made her reconsider her own tenure at NBC, Savannah Guthrie remained content with her position.

"What I know now is that I have the best job with the best people, both on camera and behind the scenes," she said.

"We’re doing important work and [it’s] fun. Who knows what the future holds? I’m open, but I’m pretty darn happy," Guthrie added.

Hoda Kotb’s announcement and reflections

Hoda Kotb officially announced her departure on 'Today' during the September 26, 2024, episode, with her final show airing last month.

Reflecting on the decision, Kotb admitted it was not an easy choice but one driven by a desire to spend more time with her young children.

"Obviously I had my kiddos late in life, and I was thinking that they deserve a bigger piece of my time pie," she said on air.

"I feel like we only have a finite amount of time. And so, with all that being said, this is the hardest thing in the world," she continued.

Kotb added, "I've been practicing so I wouldn't cry, but anyway, I did."

Hoda Kotb says she's at peace with her decision

Hoda Kotb's career at NBC spanned nearly three decades, including her tenure at 'Dateline' and 'Today' alongside co-hosts such as Savannah Guthrie, Kathie Lee Gifford, and Jenna Bush Hager.

Earlier this month, Kotb assured fans that she has no regrets.

"I woke up on the very first day after I made my decision—that Monday at 4:15—and I have to tell you, everything seemed right," said Kotb.

She recounted a touching moment with her daughter, saying, "My little girl ran down the stairs and she looked at me and she goes, 'You are here!' And I go, 'Yes! I’m here.' So, right decision confirmed."