Hoda Kotb has shifted her priorities towards her family following her recent departure from the “Today” show.
In a heartfelt announcement made in September 2024, the veteran journalist, who dedicated 26 years to NBC News, revealed her decision to leave in order to devote more of her time to her two daughters. She described her need to provide a “larger slice of [her] time pie” to her children.
In a moving letter to her colleagues, Kotb also shared her desire to spend more quality moments with her mother, Sameha Kotb.
Hoda’s surprising decision came shortly after she had relocated to the suburbs. She became a mother through adoption, bringing daughters Haley and Hope into her life in 2017 and 2019, respectively. During that period, Hoda was engaged to Joel Schiffman, but the couple has since ended their relationship.
Among those deeply affected by her exit were her fellow “Today” hosts, including Savannah Guthrie and Al Roker, who expressed their support and sadness over her departure.
Sameha Kotb, who has made numerous appearances at NBC’s 30 Rock to share family recipes, spent over three decades working for the Library of Congress. Hoda has often reflected on her mother’s indomitable spirit and determination in her writings. Growing up with her mother, Hoda drew inspiration from Sameha’s relentless attitude.
Sameha raised Hoda along with her siblings, Hala and Adel, after the death of her husband, Abdel Kader Kotb, who passed away from a heart attack in 1986.
Adel, Hoda’s brother, is a devoted father to two daughters, Hannah and Ella. Hoda has fond memories of her childhood with her siblings, describing the bond they shared as “thick as thieves,” emphasizing their close-knit family dynamics.
Hala Kotb, her sister, stands out as a fiercely loyal family member. Hoda has highlighted Hala’s unwavering commitment to family, noting that she has always been there to support relatives during tough times, including the death of their father and Hoda’s own health issues.
Haley Joy Kotb, Hoda’s first daughter, was adopted in February 2017. Hoda announced her arrival on “Today,” proudly declaring, “Haley is a Valentine’s baby, she’s a little nugget.” The affectionate mother named her after Halley’s Comet.
Hope Catherine Kotb followed in April 2019, making Haley a big sister. Hope faced a health scare in 2023, although specifics about her condition remain undisclosed. Hoda reassured fans that her daughter is recovering, noting, “She’s doing better… this kid is full of healing light, as I say to her.”
Through this transition, Hoda Kotb is embracing a new chapter in her life, placing family at the forefront.
