Why is Hoda Kotb leaving 'Today' show? Fans upset over beloved host’s sudden departure after 17 years

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: Hoda Kotb, who has been a staple of the NBC family for 26 years, announced on Thursday, September 26, that she will be leaving the 'Today' show.

In a heartfelt announcement, the 60-year-old anchor shared the news with her co-anchors, Savannah Guthrie, Al Roker, Jenna Bush Hager, Craig Melvin, and Sheinelle Jones.

Why is Hoda Kotb leaving 'Today' show?

Hoda Kotb revealed that she is stepping away to focus on her family and personal life, marking a major turning point in her career.

The beloved host shared that she has loved her time on the show but is looking ahead to new challenges and personal goals.

In a letter to her 'Today' colleagues, published on September 26, Kotb wrote, "As I write this, my heart is all over the map... I know I’m making the right decision, but it’s a painful one."

"So many of my professional relationships have become some of my most cherished friendships," she continued, according to the New York Post.

Sharing that her birthday celebration on the 'Today' Plaza felt like a turning point, Kotb said, "My sixtieth birthday celebration on the Plaza felt like a shift. Like a massive, joyful YES, you are!"

She explained that she saw her future with clarity and realized it was time to devote more energy to her daughters, Haley, seven, and Hope, five, as well as her mother.

“I’ve been weighing this decision for quite a while — Am I truly ready?” she reflected.

"Obviously I had my kids late in life, and they deserve a bigger piece of my time pie that I have," Kotb added.

Hoda Kotb says she's staying in the NBC family

While Hoda Kotb will be stepping down from her daily co-host duties, she made it clear that she will not be leaving NBC entirely.

"I’m gonna be here past the first of the year, and I’m gonna stay in the NBC family," she said.

"Family is family, and you all will always be a part of mine," added Kotb, who joined NBC in 1998 as a correspondent for 'Dateline' and became part of the 'Today' team in 2008.

The veteran journalist gained further prominence in 2018 when she replaced Matt Lauer as co-anchor, following his firing over misconduct allegations.

Ending her announcement with a mix of sadness and excitement for the future, Kotb said, “This is the hardest thing in the world."

Internet sad to see Hoda Kotb's sudden departure from 'Today'

As Hoda Kotb's tenure on 'Today' has been marked by warmth and a deep connection with her viewers, fans were stunned by their beloved host's heartfelt announcement about her sudden departure from the show.

One user on X wrote, "Sad to see Hoda go, but excited for her next adventure! Wishing her all the best, he’ll be missed!"

"This is the worst news... @hodakotb has always been a joy to watch and as a journalist, someone I have admired. Congrats, Hoda - but you will be missed. Thank you for being the person you are," a netizen commented.

"I can't imagine watching the Today's show without Hoda, but I completely understand. Nothing but best wishes for you and your family," an individual penned, while someone else remarked, "Ok didn’t plan on crying this morning. @hodakotb, you are such an inspiration and a light. Congratulations on the next chapter of your life."

"Shed tears this morning. So surprised at this news and will miss Hoda in the mornings. My days have begun with her for many years. I've always felt that she's the real deal. I'm 2 miles from 30 rock...maybe I'll get up there one day crack of dawn to see her. Love u Hoda!" a user tweeted.

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