Advertisement
Hoda Kotb’s recent announcement on the Today show has certainly captured attention, not just for its content but also for the sentimental details she included. On September 26, she revealed that she would be stepping back from her broadcasting duties to dedicate more time to her daughters, Haley Joy and Hope Catherine. Notably, during her heartfelt announcement, she wore a necklace featuring the letter ‘M,’ which she has explained stands for “Mom.”
In a previous episode from January 2022, Hoda shared the significance of her jewelry, mentioning that she also wears necklaces with her daughters’ names and one that says “I love you Mama.” Her co-host, Jenna Bush Hager, prompted a touching conversation about the title of “Mom,” to which Hoda agreed, highlighting how meaningful it is to her.
Hoda’s journey to motherhood has been deeply personal. After her breast cancer diagnosis in 2007 prevented her from carrying children, she embraced adoption, welcoming Haley in 2017 and Hope in 2019 with her ex-fiancé, Joel Schiffman. Her recent letter expressed that while her broadcasting career has been immensely fulfilling, she feels it’s time for her family to take precedence, stating that her children and her mother “need and deserve a bigger slice of my time pie.”
The news surprised her colleagues at Today, who were reportedly taken aback by her decision. A source shared with People that Hoda is greatly loved by her co-workers, and they all wish her well as she embarks on this new chapter of her life. Kotb had considered this choice carefully, discussing it with her co-hosts, Jenna Bush Hager and Savannah Guthrie, before making her final decision.
Overall, Hoda’s announcement reflects her dedication to family while also highlighting her successful career, and it resonates with many who value the balance between work and personal life.