Hoda Kotb’s Farewell: A Week-Long Celebration of Joy, Gratitude, and Lasting Memories
Hoda Kotb, a beloved figure on NBC’s Today show for nearly three decades, bid farewell to the program in January 2025. Her departure, prompted by a desire to spend more time with her two young daughters, was marked by a week-long "Hoda-bration" filled with heartfelt tributes, surprise reunions, and touching gestures from colleagues, friends, and fans. This celebration was not just a goodbye, but a testament to Kotb’s enduring impact on the show, her colleagues, and the countless viewers whose lives she touched over the years.
The festivities commenced with a surprise visit from Kotb’s sorority sisters from Virginia Tech, who traveled from across the country to honor their beloved "pledge trainer." The outpouring of love and support from her sisters underscored the deep connections Kotb forged throughout her life. This heartwarming reunion was followed by a personalized gift from acclaimed author Charlie Mackesy, whose book, "The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse," held special meaning for Kotb. Mackesy’s heartfelt message, emphasizing the victory in every step she takes, resonated deeply with Kotb and served as a poignant reminder of the impact she has had on others.
The celebration continued with a series of emotional reunions that showcased Kotb’s genuine compassion and ability to connect with people on a profound level. Actress Michelle Buteau shared a touching anecdote from the early days of her career, recalling Kotb’s simple act of kindness that made her feel seen and valued. This small gesture, years earlier, had a lasting impact on Buteau, shaping her own approach to leadership and interactions with others. The story brought both women to tears, highlighting the power of human connection and the ripple effect of kindness.
Another powerful reunion featured the family of Erin Ludwig, a woman who lost her battle with breast cancer in 2017 and whose story was featured in one of Kotb’s "Pink Power" segments. The reunion with Erin’s husband and daughters brought a flood of emotions as they presented Kotb with gifts for her own daughters, symbolizing the enduring bond forged through shared experience and loss. This poignant moment underscored Kotb’s commitment to sharing stories of resilience and hope, leaving a lasting legacy of compassion and empathy.
The outpouring of love extended beyond personal connections, as evidenced by the display of fan-made posters that adorned the Today Plaza. This gesture, orchestrated by Kotb’s cohosts, showcased the deep affection viewers held for her and her genuine connection with the Today show audience. The heartfelt display of appreciation brought Kotb to tears, underscoring the profound impact she had on viewers across the country. The collage of posters served as a visual representation of the countless lives she touched through her work.
The "Hoda-bration" also included lighter moments, such as a final installment of the popular "Can Hoda & Jenna Hack It?" segment. Although the lemon-related hack proved unsuccessful, the segment concluded with a thoughtful gift from Jenna Bush Hager – a lemon tree for Kotb’s new home. This gesture, symbolic of growth and new beginnings, perfectly captured the spirit of the week-long celebration.
Throughout the week, the "Hoda-bration" served as a poignant reminder of Kotb’s enduring legacy on the Today show. Her warmth, empathy, and genuine connection with others resonated throughout the celebration. The outpouring of love and support from colleagues, friends, and fans alike painted a vivid picture of a woman who touched countless lives through her work and her genuine spirit. While her departure marked the end of an era, the memories and impact of her time on the Today show will undoubtedly continue to inspire and uplift for years to come.
