The Official Countdown: 5 Things To Know About Hoda Kotb's Final Day On The Today Show
The news that Hoda Kotb is officially leaving the *Today Show* has sent shockwaves through the morning television world, prompting millions of viewers to search for the definitive answer to one question: When is her last day? The speculation and rumors have been put to rest with an official announcement from NBC. As of today, December 21, 2025, the beloved co-anchor has a confirmed date for her final broadcast, marking the end of an era that spanned nearly two decades on the show and over 26 years with NBC News.
The departure of Hoda Kotb, known for her infectious laughter and deeply empathetic interviews, is not a sudden exit but a planned transition to a new chapter focused on personal growth and a unique business venture. Her final day is scheduled to be a major television event, complete with an emotional farewell celebration. This article breaks down the official date, the real reason for her exit, and what the future holds for both Hoda and the *Today Show* lineup.
Hoda Kotb: Complete Biography and Career Timeline
Hoda Kotb is an American broadcast journalist, television personality, and author whose career has made her one of the most recognizable and trusted faces in morning news. Her journey from local news to the anchor desk of the *Today Show* is a testament to her resilience and unique connection with the audience.
- Full Name: Hoda Kotb
- Date of Birth: August 9, 1964
- Age (as of 2025): 61
- Birthplace: Norman, Oklahoma, U.S.
- Parents: A.K. Kotb (Father) and Sameha Kotb (Mother), both originally from Egypt.
- Education: Graduated from Fort Hunt High School in Alexandria, Virginia, and earned a B.A. in Broadcast Journalism from Virginia Tech in 1986.
- Early Career: Began her career as a news assistant in 1986, working at local news stations in places like Greenville, Mississippi; Peoria, Illinois; and Fort Myers, Florida.
- NBC News (1998–2025): Joined NBC News as a correspondent for *Dateline NBC*, covering a wide range of national and international stories.
- *Today Show* Debut (2007): Became co-host of the newly created Fourth Hour of the *Today Show* alongside Kathie Lee Gifford, a partnership that quickly became a cultural phenomenon.
- Main Anchor Role (2018): Following Matt Lauer's departure, she was officially named co-anchor of the main two hours of the *Today Show* alongside Savannah Guthrie, becoming the first pair of female co-anchors in the show's history.
- Personal Life: A breast cancer survivor, she has openly shared her journey, resonating deeply with viewers. She is a mother to two adopted daughters, Haley Joy and Hope Catherine.
1. The Official Date of Hoda Kotb's Last Day on The Today Show
The question of "When is Hoda's last day?" has a definitive answer straight from the source. The final scheduled broadcast for Hoda Kotb as a full-time co-anchor of the *Today Show* is Friday, January 10, 2025.
This date marks the culmination of a remarkable run that started when she first joined the network in 1998. The announcement of her planned departure was made in late 2024, giving the show and its viewers time to prepare for the emotional farewell. NBC is not letting the moment pass quietly; the entire week leading up to January 10th has been dubbed a "Hoda-bration".
The "Hoda-bration" is expected to feature a series of retrospectives, celebrity tributes, and emotional segments celebrating her most memorable moments, from her viral laughter with former co-host Kathie Lee Gifford to her poignant interviews with newsmakers. Fans are encouraged to tune in throughout the week to witness the farewell to one of morning television's most enduring figures.
2. The Real Reason Hoda is Leaving the Anchor Desk After 26 Years
Unlike many celebrity departures that are shrouded in mystery, Hoda Kotb has been candid about her reasons for stepping away from the demanding daily schedule at 30 Rockefeller Plaza. Her decision is not a retirement in the traditional sense, but a pivot to a new, passion-driven phase of her life.
A New Wellness Venture
The primary reason for her exit is to launch a new business venture centered around wellness and mindfulness. Kotb has spoken openly about embracing self-care and a desire to help others find joy and balance in their lives. The new company is reportedly focused on content and products that promote mental and physical well-being. This move aligns perfectly with her personal brand as an author of inspirational books, including titles like *Jump and Find Joy: Embracing Change in Every Season*.
Prioritizing Family Time
Another significant factor is the desire to spend more quality time with her family, specifically her two young daughters, Haley Joy and Hope Catherine. The grueling schedule of a morning news anchor requires very early wake-up calls and long, demanding days, which can take a toll on family life. Stepping away from the daily grind of the *Today Show* will allow Hoda to be more present for her children and embrace a more flexible lifestyle.
3. What Hoda Kotb's Future Looks Like and Her NBC Status
While Hoda is stepping down from her full-time anchor duties, she is not completely severing ties with NBC News. The network has indicated that she will remain in a non-daily, contributor role, allowing her to take on special projects and potentially appear on the show for major interviews or events.
The Focus on "Jump and Find Joy"
Her main professional focus post-January 10, 2025, will be her new wellness company. This venture is a natural extension of her work as an author and motivational speaker. She has often used her platform to discuss topics of resilience, finding happiness, and overcoming adversity, particularly after her own battle with breast cancer.
Potential for Other Media Projects
Given her incredible popularity and ability to connect with an audience, speculation is high that Hoda may also explore opportunities in the podcasting space or other long-form media where she can delve deeper into personal stories and inspirational content. However, the immediate priority is launching her wellness brand and spending time with her children.
4. Who is Replacing Hoda Kotb on The Today Show?
The departure of a co-anchor as central as Hoda Kotb leaves a massive gap in the morning lineup. The question of her replacement is one of the biggest stories in television news.
The Main Co-Anchor Role (Hours 1-2)
Hoda’s co-anchor, Savannah Guthrie, will remain in her role. The search for a new partner to sit next to Savannah during the critical first two hours of the show is ongoing, but one name has emerged as the clear frontrunner: Craig Melvin. Melvin, who currently co-anchors the third hour, is a respected journalist within the NBC family and is widely rumored to be stepping into the main co-anchor slot. An official announcement is expected closer to Hoda's departure date.
The Fourth Hour (Hoda & Jenna)
Hoda's departure from the Fourth Hour, *Hoda & Jenna*, will also necessitate a change. Her co-host, Jenna Bush Hager, is expected to remain in her role, with a new co-host being brought in to fill the seat. The chemistry of the Fourth Hour is crucial to its success, and NBC will be looking for a personality who can match Jenna's warmth and energy.
5. Hoda's Legacy: A Trailblazer in Morning Television
Hoda Kotb's impact on the *Today Show* and NBC News extends far beyond her on-air time. Her 26-year tenure at the network is a legacy of authentic journalism and groundbreaking television.
- The Kathie Lee & Hoda Era: Her partnership with Kathie Lee Gifford on the Fourth Hour, which began in 2007, completely redefined morning television. Their unscripted, wine-fueled, and often hilarious conversations created a blueprint for casual, personality-driven news segments.
- First Female Co-Anchors: Her elevation to the main anchor desk in 2018 alongside Savannah Guthrie marked a historic moment, as they became the first all-female anchor team for the first two hours of the show.
- Inspirational Storytelling: Hoda's openness about her adoption journey and her breast cancer diagnosis made her an incredibly relatable figure, turning her from a journalist into a trusted friend to millions of American households.
As the "Hoda-bration" approaches in early January 2025, the television world prepares to say goodbye to a true icon. While her last day on January 10th will be an emotional one, it signals an exciting new chapter for Hoda Kotb as she transitions from the anchor desk to the world of wellness entrepreneurship.
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