Hoda Kotb, the beloved Today show anchor, celebrated Christmas 2024 surrounded by family, including her two daughters, Haley and Hope, her mother, Sameha, her sister, and notably, her ex-fiancé, Joel Schiffman. The heartwarming reunion captured the spirit of the holidays, emphasizing the enduring bond between Kotb and Schiffman, who remain committed co-parents despite their romantic separation. Kotb had previously hinted at Schiffman’s presence during the holiday festivities, sharing that her Christmas celebrations were typically intimate affairs with her closest family members, including Schiffman. This year’s gathering marked a special occasion as it was the first Christmas celebrated in Kotb’s new suburban home, adding another layer of significance to the family reunion.
The presence of Schiffman at Christmas underscores the amicable relationship he maintains with Kotb and her family. Despite ending their eight-year relationship in January 2022, the two have prioritized their shared role as parents to Haley and Hope. Kotb’s earlier comments about the relationship’s “season” suggest that while their romantic chapter closed, their connection as co-parents and friends has continued to flourish. This commitment to a positive co-parenting dynamic allows their daughters to experience the warmth and stability of a connected family unit, especially during cherished holidays like Christmas. The matching pajamas worn by the family in the photos shared by Kotb further symbolize their unity and shared joy during this festive time.
This year’s Christmas celebrations held added significance for Kotb and her daughters as it marked their first holiday season in their new suburban home. Kotb’s excitement about establishing new traditions in their new house was palpable in her pre-Christmas interview on Today with Hoda & Jenna. The simple act of hanging stockings “in a place that you know will be the place where they’re gonna be hanging for years” represented the creation of new memories and the solidification of their family unit within their new environment. This transition to a new home signified a fresh start for Kotb and her family, and the shared Christmas experience further cemented the feeling of home and belonging.
Kotb had previously expressed her anticipation for the holidays, particularly after hosting her first Thanksgiving in the new home. The successful Thanksgiving gathering, which fostered a sense of togetherness and belonging, set the stage for a similarly heartwarming Christmas celebration. Although Schiffman wasn’t present in the Thanksgiving photos shared by Kotb, his inclusion in the Christmas festivities demonstrates the evolving nature of their relationship and their mutual commitment to creating a positive environment for their children. The “Dad” stocking prominently displayed amongst the family’s stockings over the fireplace subtly hinted at Schiffman’s involvement in the Christmas celebrations before the photos confirming his presence were released.
The holiday spirit also extended to Kotb’s Today show co-host, Jenna Bush Hager, who shared her family’s tradition of traveling to Texas for Christmas. Bush Hager’s anecdotes about her children’s experiences in the Texas countryside highlighted the joy of family traditions and the importance of creating lasting memories. Her lighthearted story about her father, former President George W. Bush, encouraging outdoor activities for her children illustrated the intergenerational connections that often enrich holiday gatherings. Bush Hager’s sharing of personal traditions served as a reminder of the diverse ways families celebrate the holidays and the common thread of togetherness that binds them.
In conclusion, Hoda Kotb’s Christmas 2024 celebration was a testament to the power of family, both in its traditional and evolving forms. The inclusion of her ex-fiancé, Joel Schiffman, in the festivities exemplified the enduring bond they share as co-parents and friends, prioritizing the well-being and happiness of their daughters. The celebration in their new home marked a fresh start and the creation of new traditions, further solidifying their family unit. Coupled with Jenna Bush Hager’s shared holiday traditions, the stories underscored the universal themes of love, togetherness, and the creation of cherished memories that define the holiday season. The shared experiences of these two prominent figures resonated with audiences, reminding them of the importance of family and the enduring spirit of the holidays.
