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\u2019s condition led her to reassess priorities. \u201cI can be here worrying, or be there with her and feel relief,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
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\u2019t solely due to Hope\u2019s health, she admitted it was a significant factor.<\/p>\n
Kotb officially stepped down in January 2025, calling the decision \u201cthe hardest thing in the world,\u201d but not a loss. \u201cI have everything I want\u2014my family, my friends, my health,\u201d she told USA TODAY. She added, \u201cI never want Hope to think I left because of her. But being there for her was part of it.\u201d<\/p>\n
While rumors swirled about a possible return to TV, Kotb denied plans to take over Kelly Clarkson\u2019s show, saying, \u201cIf I ever came back, it would be right here.\u201d<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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\u2019s condition led her to reassess priorities. \u201cI can be here worrying, or be…<\/p>\n