Hoda Kotb Makes an Unexpected Return to Today—The Emotional Story Behind Her Departure
Hoda Kotb Surprises Her Former Co-Anchors in a Special Video Appearance
Nearly two months after stepping away from Today, Hoda Kotb made an unexpected return—at least virtually. The beloved broadcaster appeared in a video message during the 3rd Hour of Today to greet her former colleagues Craig Melvin, Al Roker, and Dylan Dreyer as they reported live from New Orleans, a city she holds dear.
Kotb’s Surprise Message Delights the Today Team
On February 28, during the 3rd Hour of Today, viewers were treated to a heartfelt surprise when Kotb’s face appeared on screen. Al Roker built up the anticipation, teasing, “Before we go any further, we have a very special guest who knows this city better than anyone.” Moments later, Kotb playfully exclaimed, “Wait a minute—are you guys in my city without me?”
She went on to joke, “Okay, Al, Craig, Dylan, I already know what you’re about to do—eat all the amazing food, soak in the incredible music, and experience what I truly believe is the best city in the world. Y’all have so much fun without me… wah wah. Happy Mardi Gras!”
New Orleans Holds a Special Place in Kotb’s Heart
Dylan Dreyer immediately acknowledged New Orleans as “Hoda’s city,” while Roker shared a fond memory of celebrating Mardi Gras with her. “About a decade ago, I had the privilege of riding on a parade float with Hoda—it was like being alongside the Queen of England,” he recalled.
Kotb has deep ties to New Orleans. Before joining Today, she worked as an anchor and reporter for WWL, a local CBS affiliate. She’s a devoted fan of the New Orleans Saints and even delivered Tulane University’s commencement speech in 2016.
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In an interview with Southern Living in June 2024, Kotb described the city’s impact on her. “It’s the closest thing to a hometown I’ve ever had. There’s something about New Orleans—it pulls you in right from the start.”
Following the tragic New Year’s Day terrorist attack on Bourbon Street, Kotb expressed her sorrow, stating, “New Orleans is my second home, and my heart broke this morning.”
Kotb’s First Major Appearance Since Leaving Today
Since her departure from Today on January 10, Kotb’s name has been frequently mentioned on the show, but this marked her first official return. She stepped away from her role after 14 years to focus on spending time with her daughters, Haley Joy, 9, and Hope Catherine, 5.
However, she hasn’t been entirely absent from the public eye. Earlier this week, she made a surprise visit to support her longtime friend and former co-anchor Savannah Guthrie at a book event in New Jersey.
Guthrie shared her excitement on Instagram, posting a heartfelt caption alongside a photo of their reunion: “Happiness is… your friend surprising—no, shocking you—by showing up at your book event. @hodakotb, there’s truly no one like you. My biggest cheerleader from start to finish. 💛💛💛”
What’s Next for Kotb?
When Kotb first announced her departure in September 2024, she reassured fans that she wouldn’t be going far.
“I’ll always be part of the NBC family—the longest and most meaningful work relationship of my life,” she said. “I’m not disappearing! How could I? Family is family, and you all will always be part of mine.”
Beyond spending quality time with her daughters, Kotb has also hinted at an exciting new project in the wellness industry.
Speaking on The Kelly Clarkson Show in January, she revealed, “A few years ago, I started exploring wellness. At first, I thought some of it seemed a little ‘woo-woo,’ but the more I tried it, the more I realized—wait, I actually feel calmer, I feel better.” She went on to share that she is developing a wellness app, along with plans for retreats and a podcast.
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