Celebrities Share Their Reactions to Hoda Kotb Departing the Today Show
Both fans and celebrity guests will surely miss seeing Hoda Kotb on Today.
In September 2024, Kotb, aged 60, surprised viewers by announcing her departure from the show in early 2025. “Turning 60 was a significant milestone for me, prompting thoughts about this upcoming decade—what it means and what it holds for me,” she emotionally expressed. “It became clear to me that it was time to turn the page at 60 and discover new opportunities.”
Kotb joined NBC as a correspondent for Dateline in 1998. A decade later, she became Kathie Lee Gifford’s cohost on the fourth hour of the Today show. In 2018, she stepped in as Savannah Guthrie’s co-anchor after Matt Lauer‘s misconduct scandal, and she has been co-hosting the fourth hour with Jenna Bush Hager since 2019.
In her announcement regarding her departure, Kotb highlighted her desire to spend more time with her daughters, Haley, 7, and Hope, 5, as a significant factor contributing to her decision to leave Today. An NBC insider revealed to Us Weekly that Kotb has intentions of exploring the wellness sector more seriously.
“I’m launching a wellness app and company that will include retreats and a podcast to explore things I’m passionate about,” she shared during the January 6 episode of The Kelly Clarkson Show. “It’s not just a fun getaway but rather an experience that will transform you as you walk away, feeling renewed.”
Kotb’s last Today episode aired on Friday, January 10, with Craig Melvin set to take over as Guthrie’s co-anchor. Bush Hager will continue hosting the fourth hour, now retitled Today With Jenna & Friends, along with a rotating group of guest hosts.
Scroll down to see celebrity reactions to Kotb’s announcement of her Today show exit:
Maria Shriver
“I’m incredibly proud of my friend @hodakotb for courageously stepping into this new chapter!” Shriver posted alongside Kotb’s exit announcement clip on Instagram in September 2024. “May your bravery inspire us all as we embrace life’s adventures. I am thrilled for you and eager to see what the future has in store!”
Kotb acknowledged Shriver for the “guidance” provided throughout her career during a segment on Hoda & Jenna a month later. “You went with your instincts despite fears. That’s so heroic. Leaving something you love for the unknown takes real courage,” Shriver affirmed.
She continued: “I aimed to reassure you of your capabilities in every scenario because you’ve navigated it all before. Remember to trust your instincts and voice; that’s all I wanted to convey.”
Shriver echoed similar sentiments during her special appearance alongside Kotb on Today on January 10, stating, “Being part of your journey has been a wonderful gift. You’ll always be a part of our lives; your impact is enduring.”
Mariska Hargitay
“I love you so much and am endlessly inspired by you. It was so uplifting to see you today,” the actress expressed during an October 2024 visit with Kotb and Guthrie, 52. “To know we’ve shared over 26 years is such a blessing.” (Hargitay portrayed Olivia Benson on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit beginning in 1999 shortly after Kotb’s Dateline tenure started.)
“When you made this pivotal decision, I cheered for you! I feel deep sadness for all who will miss you, especially Savannah,” she noted, playfully offering to step into Kotb’s role whenever needed.
“I’d be delighted to cover for you anytime,” she joked to Guthrie, who retorted, “We might just take you up on that.”
Jimmy Fallon
Fallon reported that he “lost it” upon hearing about Kotb’s Today departure during a casual chat with her on the October 2024 episode of The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. His favorite card from friends post-announcement was simply from Fallon, stating, “What the hell?”
“Hoda, your contributions to this network have been invaluable…your life is about to change dramatically. It’s going to be amazing,” Fallon said. “You’ll explore, go to concerts, dine out, catch some bad TV—whatever your heart desires, without the early morning commitment.”
After Kotb affirmed her intent to remain affiliated with NBC after her Today departure, Fallon exclaimed: “You can’t leave us; you’re essential. The world truly needs you.”
Chris Martin
Kotb inquired whether Martin and his Coldplay bandmates planned to retire post their 12th album, to which he humorously responded and referenced Kotb’s retirement news, joking about their potential cookie-making business venture.
“Aren’t you retiring soon, too?” he mentioned in October 2024. “Hoda, weren’t we supposed to collaborate on a cookie company?”
On Hoda & Jenna, Bush Hager, 42, playfully reacted to the prospect of the duo’s hypothetical cookie business, saying, “I wasn’t aware you were starting a baking venture with Chris Martin.”
Trevor Noah
Reflecting on his personal exit from The Daily Show in 2022, Noah offered Kotb some advise about beginning her new chapter.
“My advice is to avoid jumping headfirst into a multitude of new endeavors,” he suggested during an October 2024 episode of Today. “Initially, I overextended myself, but I’ve settled into a new pace that’s refreshing.”
Henry Winkler
“You’ve had numerous guests on this show, but you make every person feel like the only one,” Winkler remarked before diving into his interview during an October 2024 episode of Hoda & Jenna. “On behalf of Stacey [Weitzman] and myself, we will genuinely miss you, just like America will.”
Jason Segel
After completing an interview with Kotb during an episode of Today in October 2024, the Shrinking star left Kotb in tears with heartfelt comments. “I’m truly going to miss you when you leave. These interviews have marked the highlights of my career; I’m grateful for our connection,” he shared.
Kotb expressed her gratitude to Segel with a warm hug.
Billy Crystal
“I hope to return before your departure because your presence has been a treasure and every appearance brings such joy. I’ll be hoping to join you once more,” Crystal remarked at the conclusion of his interview on an October 2024 episode of Today.
Kotb replied, “I hope so too, that was really lovely of you.”
Molly Shannon
“Hoda, I’m genuinely thrilled about your choice. You’ve been on my mind, and it’s absolutely wonderful,” Shannon expressed on an October 2024 episode of Hoda & Jenna, resonating with Kotb’s wish to spend more time with her kids.
“As a parent, I completely understand because my children are now both in college, which makes this period particularly wild,” she shared before concluding, “I’m so pleased for you, Hoda. Jenna and you both exude joy.”
Bobby Flay
Flay floated the idea of a potential television collaboration with Kotb while they were cooking on Hoda & Jenna in October 2024. “Take a break, and then I’d love for you to join me at Food Network,” he declared. “We’ll embark on culinary adventures together, where you’ll chef for me and I’ll return the favor.”
While Kotb was excited about the concept, Bush Hager playfully interjected, “I’m right here, you know.” Flay responded jokingly, “It’s done. She is transitioning to Food Network. You’ve had your time with her; now she’s coming with me.”
Keke Palmer
Palmer discovered Kotb’s Today exit while appearing on Hoda & Jenna in November 2024. Surprised, she eagerly suggested taking over Kotb’s spot next to Bush Hager.
“Oh no! Let’s trade places right now,” she joked before pretending to interview Kotb as a guest. Bush Hager responded enthusiastically, “Keke’s staying for the next five years!”
Bowen Yang
“The feeling on 30 Rock is akin to mourning a national tragedy now that Hoda is leaving,” Saturday Night Live star Yang humorously stated during a November 2024 episode of Hoda & Jenna. “Thank you for being open about your motherhood journey with Hope and Haley; you’ve drawn us in with such grace.”
Bush Hager later mentioned that Yang and his podcast partner, Matt Rogers, were planning a surprise for Hoda as she embarks on her wellness journey.
Remaining coy, Yang teased: “It’s going to be a delightful surprise!”
Cynthia Erivo
During the 2024 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, the Wicked star presented a beautiful bouquet to Kotb, stating, “These flowers are for you as I know this is your final Thanksgiving parade, and I want to acknowledge and celebrate you for your dedication throughout the years.”
Ken Jeong
“Thank you, Hoda, for elevating my career and showing immense support over the years. If it weren’t for people like you, my career would look entirely different,” Jeong shared during a December 2024 episode of Hoda & Jenna. In a humorous tribute, he also presented Kotb with a photo of himself lounging on his Hollywood Walk of Fame star.
“I want you to frame that,” he joked, adding, “But if you want a signature, that’s going to cost extra!”
‘Queer Eye’ Cast
The Queer Eye cast presented Kotb with flowers ahead of her Today departure. “There’s no one like you in the industry; you create a sense of safety and kindness, and we adore you,” Jonathan van Ness stated on a December 2024 episode of Today. “Our flowers are a way of showing appreciation as no one does it quite like you.”
Kotb, visibly moved, appreciated the sweet gesture, while Porowski quipped, “And you have to carry these flowers home, so you’re welcome.”
Jamie Lee Curtis
“Say it isn’t so, Hoda! I can’t process this reality. This moment feels unreal,” the Oscar-winning actress remarked during an December 2024 episode of Today.
Curtis praised Kotb as an “absolute treasure” and read a personal letter she sent to her after the announcement. “It says, ‘Hoda, the long and winding road. Wherever you go, I’ll follow,’” she stated.
In their closing remarks, Curtis left Kotb in tears again with heartfelt words: “Thank you for changing this space and this team of people who love you. You’re venturing out for all the right motivations, and you’ll take all of us along with you.”
Curtis made a special video appearance during Kotb’s final show on January 10, saying, “We send you off with a warm ‘aloha’ and deep gratitude for each and every beautiful moment you’ve shared with us.”
Additionally, Guthrie presented a ceramic orb made by Curtis, which read, “Every today spent with you is a better day,” commemorating Kotb’s tenure at Today.
Meghan Trainor
The Grammy-winning artist performed the Hoda & Jenna theme song live alongside the hosts on December 2024. She expressed gratitude, acknowledging Kotb for making her feel like a superstar since her debut at age 19.
“This show was my starting point, and you constantly believed in me, pushing me towards my dreams. You’ve always been a beacon of support,” she told Kotb. As a heartfelt gesture, Kotb and Bush Hager surprised Trainor with a montage detailing her journey on Today, showcasing her initial performance of “All About That Bass” to significant milestones like her marriage and parenthood.
The emotional tribute brought Trainor to tears. “I’m so thrilled for you. Knowing we cried at your announcement resonates deeply. We even created sweatshirts that say, ‘I heart Hoda,’—they’re a bit late, but they’re coming,” she added.
Billy Eichner
“I watch your show every day, and while guests often bring tears, I just don’t want to do that to you,” Eichner joked during his Hoda & Jenna interview in December 2024. “You are a New York institution and truly an asset to television, and your absence will be felt.”
He humorously added, “But in all seriousness, it’s high time for you to embrace new adventures.”
Donna Kelce
Mama Kelce helped kick off Kotb’s final week at Today with a heartfelt video message, stating: “Wishing Hoda a joyful retirement. Enjoy your wonderful moments ahead; it’s time for the next chapter!”
Kerry Washington
The actress expressed her excitement for Kotb in a video message during the January 6 episode of Today. “Hoda, I’m thrilled for you and eager to see what’s next! Thank you for so many years of laughter and insightful discussions on the show; it’s been a privilege,” she said.
Stephen and Ayesha Curry
On January 7, the couple congratulated Kotb during their video message, with Ayesha stating, “We want to congratulate you on your incredible journey. We are greatly looking forward to discovering your next adventures!”
Stephen added: “Congratulations on everything!”
Zac Brown
“Hoda, I adore you! Congratulations on your retirement and what lies ahead in your next chapter,” the musician expressed in another video message shared on January 7. “Having you in our lives through the screen has been wonderful, but now I’d love to see you in person!”
Michael Bublé
On January 7, the singer shared that a brief 15-second video wasn’t enough to express how significantly Kotb had enriched their lives, stating, “We love you. I cherish you. Thank you for everything you’ve done and congratulations! I’m looking forward to seeing your next steps.”
Andy Cohen
“I adore you endlessly, Hoda,” Cohen said during his January 7 discussion on Hoda & Jenna. “While this is a melancholic moment, I genuinely admire your choices.”
He went on to list his five favorite aspects of Kotb, including that she possesses “the best hair on television,” and commended her bravery in deciding to leave Today while achieving great heights.
Kelly Clarkson
“Hoda, I’m so excited for you!” Clarkson said during her video message at the start of the January 8 episode of Today. “Congratulations on all your successes during your tenure with us on TV and personally; I have so much affection for you.”
Lisa Kudrow
In her video message on January 8, Kudrow shared that she tuned into Kotb every morning, citing it as a delightful start to her day. “You are fantastic, and I hope to see you again on special projects, right?”
Lester Holt
The NBC Nightly News anchor conveyed his good wishes for Kotb’s upcoming endeavors in a video message on January 8. “You’ve made a significant impact throughout this network, and we will miss your presence in our daily lives, but I know we will cross paths again,” he shared.
Gwen Stefani
“You have brought joy to our mornings for so long, and we—myself and Blake Shelton included—are eagerly awaiting your next steps,” Stefani noted in a light-hearted video message on January 8.
Blake Shelton
The country singer paid tribute to Kotb during the January 8 episode of Hoda & Jenna. “While I’m happy for her, it’s surreal that we’ve reached a moment where she’s taking a step back. I hope, Hoda, that you embrace all the moments like I have been doing lately—spending more time at home,” he stated.
Besides reminiscing about their past moments on **Today**, Shelton reflected on a funny encounter, stating, “I once ran into her in Nashville, anticipating we’d have our moment, and she completely fled from me!”
He finished with a heartwarming message: “Having been in this industry for ages, I recognize these moments are special. I’m confident you won’t disappear; this break will rejuvenate you, and I eagerly await your next moves. I love you.”
Cher
The iconic singer praised Kotb as the “real deal” in a video message on January 9, indicating that she is now free to savor life without the need for early mornings. “I love you so much,” she concluded.
The ‘Sesame Street’ Cast
Elmo, Abby Cadabby, and Grover surprised Kotb with a homemade alphabet book titled “H is for Hoda” on January 9, filled with pages that read “H is for humor,” “H is for heart,” and “H is for Hope and Haley.” They also received heartfelt messages from Cookie Monster, Big Bird, and all the beloved Sesame Street characters.
“Elmo knows everyone here at Today is sad to see you go, but we’re really happy because Miss Hoda is coming to Sesame Street!” Elmo joyfully announced. “Pack your bags; we’re heading there right away!”
Ina Garten
On January 9, Guthrie remarked, “It wouldn’t be a ‘Hoda-bration’ without a signature drink” crafted by Garten. Drawing from Kotb’s love of lemons, the Food Network star prepared French 75 cocktails for her and her co-hosts.
“Here’s to Hoda and the exceptional next chapter ahead!” Garten cheerfully exclaimed during her toast. “[She’s] truly extraordinary and has accomplished so much—it’s about dreaming big and asking for it.”
Kristin Chenoweth
Chenoweth referenced the iconic Wicked song “For Good” in a video message to Kotb during her final episode on January 10. “You’ve undeniably made a significant impact on my heart and that of the world,” she said. “Congratulations, and instead of goodbye, let’s say ‘see you later!’”
Dwyane Wade
The retired NBA star expressed his gratitude to Kotb for all she provided throughout the years in a video message on January 10. “Thank you for everything you gave us, for your endeavors, and for what lies ahead,” he stated.
Keith Morrison
“The first impression of Hoda was, ‘Wow, she’s intriguing and unique.’” Kotb’s former Dateline co-host reminisced in a January 10 video message. “She approached me once, eager to learn storytelling techniques, and her kindness and attentiveness have always stood out. We will truly miss our Hoda.”
Simone Biles
Dramatically illustrating their shared memories, Biles surprised Kotb during her final episode on January 10. “In all my experiences spanning these 26 years, you’re my favorite!” Kotb remarked to the Olympian. “You’ve achieved everything with such elegance.”
Biles expressed that she and her fellow athletes refer to Kotb as their “Olympic mom,” thanking her for always creating a safe and open environment for storytelling. “I was just a kid then, and now as I’m stepping into adulthood, we get to genuinely converse,” she reflected on their relationship, adding, “It has blossomed into something beautiful.”
Biles sent Kotb into a tizzy by hinting at their paths crossing again in Los Angeles during the 2028 Olympics without clarifying her competition plans: “I just mentioned that hopefully, we’ll both find ourselves in L.A. together; whatever that means for both of us.”
