Hoda Kotb recently opened up about her decision to leave the “Today” show, revealing her 6-year-old daughter Hope’s Type 1 diabetes played a major role. During a May 28 return to the show, Kotb told Savannah Guthrie and Craig Melvin that Hope’s condition led her to reassess priorities. “I can be here worrying, or be there with her and feel relief,” she said.
Guthrie noted Kotb often worked sleepless nights while caring for Hope, who requires constant care and multiple daily insulin shots. Though Kotb emphasized her choice wasn’t solely due to Hope’s health, she admitted it was a significant factor.
Kotb officially stepped down in January 2025, calling the decision “the hardest thing in the world,” but not a loss. “I have everything I want—my family, my friends, my health,” she told USA TODAY. She added, “I never want Hope to think I left because of her. But being there for her was part of it.”
While rumors swirled about a possible return to TV, Kotb denied plans to take over Kelly Clarkson’s show, saying, “If I ever came back, it would be right here.”