Hoda Kotb unexpectedly reveals the real reason she left the Today Show: “It was all because of one person.” Hoda Kotb announced her departure from the Today Show, citing family, personal reflection, and reported salary negotiations as key factors. Learn more about her decision and potential replacements.
Hoda Kotb Announces Departure from the Today Show
Hoda Kotb surprised viewers on September 26 when she revealed her plan to leave the Today Show at the end of 2024. The announcement marked the end of her five-year tenure, which began amid Matt Lauer’s departure due to a sexual misconduct scandal.
In her heartfelt speech, Hoda shared that her decision was deeply personal. “I just turned 60, and it was such a monumental moment for me… I realized it was time to turn the page at 60 and try something new,” she said. While leaving the Today Show, she confirmed she would remain with NBC in another role.
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- Jenna Bush Hager revealed that NBC had stopped her from saying this about Hoda Kotb when they finally announced Hoda’s departure: “I know every hidden detail of that situation…”
Balancing Career and Family
Hoda emphasized her desire to spend more time with her young daughters, Haley and Hope. “I had my kiddos late in life, and they deserve a bigger piece of the time pie,” she explained. This sentiment resonated with many fans who have followed her journey as a mother.
Her reflections on life at 60 underscore the importance of prioritizing personal fulfillment and family amidst a demanding career in television.
The Role of Salary Negotiations
However, reports suggest there might be another layer to her departure. According to Puck News, Kotb’s exit could also be tied to salary disputes. Despite her reported $20 million annual salary, NBC executives allegedly urged her to accept a pay cut, citing industry-wide declines in ratings and revenue.
While NBC valued her contributions to the Today Show, the changing television landscape may have influenced her decision to seek an exit strategy.
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- Hoda Kotb candidly admitted details about her wedding to her longtime, mysterious partner, which is also the reason she chose to step away from Today with Hoda & Jenna!
- Hoda Kotb shared an emotional moment during the filming of one of her final Today Show episodes with Jenna Bush Hager: “I never thought Jenna would do those things for me; it made me waver on my decision to leave…”
- Jenna Bush Hager angrily revealed that Hoda Kotb’s departure from the show was orchestrated to “make room” for Craig Melvin to take her spot: “They were so blatant that it hurt Hoda even before she wanted to leave…”
Who Will Replace Hoda Kotb?
As Hoda prepares to leave, speculation about her successor has already begun. Sources indicate that NBC is considering Craig Melvin and Laura Jarrett as potential replacements. The network plans to evaluate audience response to determine who will step into the beloved anchor’s shoes.
Hoda Kotb’s announcement marks the end of an era for the Today Show, leaving fans reflecting on her contributions and looking ahead to the program’s future. Whether motivated by family, personal growth, or professional challenges, her decision highlights the complexity of balancing a high-profile career with personal priorities.
Stay tuned for updates on her successor and Hoda’s next chapter at NBC. What are your thoughts on Hoda’s decision? Share them in the comments below!
