Celebrating 26 Years of Hoda Kotb at NBC: A Look Back at Her Most Memorable Moments Before Leaving ‘Today

Celebrating 26 Years of Hoda Kotb at NBC: A Look Back at Her Most Memorable Moments Before Leaving ‘Today’

As the sun rose on January 10, 2025, millions of viewers tuned in to say farewell to a beloved icon of morning television. Hoda Kotb, after extraordinary 26 years with NBC, made her final appearance on the ‘Today’ show, marking the end of an era for both her and the show. The atmosphere was electric, filled with emotion, laughter, and tributes that celebrated Hoda’s vibrant legacy. Throughout her career, Hoda has masterfully balanced informality with professionalism and has brought a unique blend of warmth and humor to the screen, touching countless lives along the way.

From interviewing countless celebrities to dancing during live performances and embracing various themed segments, Hoda has transformed the morning show landscape. She’s not just a host; she’s become a genuine friend to her viewers, sparking joy, inspiration, and laughter every morning. Today, we’ll take a heartfelt look back at some of her most unforgettable moments, the impact she has made on the ‘Today’ show, and how she has woven herself into the fabric of American morning culture.

A Journey of 26 Years: The Highlights of Hoda’s Career

Hoda Kotb took her first steps into the limelight back in 2000, and what a journey it has been! Her time at NBC spans over two decades, a period marked by remarkable changes in the entertainment industry and captivating moments on air. Her biggest breakthrough came in 2007 when she was paired with Kathie Lee Gifford, and the duo became an instant hit. Together, they created the renowned ‘Fourth Hour’ of ‘Today,’ where they showcased a delightful blend of interviews, comedic skits, and candid discussions, often accompanied by a glass of wine.

Hoda and Kathie’s chemistry was magnetic, showing millions that a morning news show could also be a lively, entertaining chat among friends. From their famous ‘Hoda-isms’ to heartwarming heart-to-heart conversations, viewers were not just watching; they were witnessing a unique sisterhood unfold on screen.

Several iconic moments defined their tenure as a duo on the show, including hilarious Halloween segments where they dressed fabulously in costumes, inspiring laughter and pure joy among their audience. Who could forget their delightful banter while sipping cocktails during holiday specials? Together, they made us laugh, cry, and, most importantly, they made mornings better.

In addition to her work with Kathie Lee, Hoda ventured into interviewing some of the world’s biggest celebrities ranging from Oprah Winfrey to the cast of ‘Friends.’ With each guest, she brought her innate ability to connect, creating unforgettable interview moments that had everyone talking. For a more visual journey into her unforgettable encounters, be sure to catch the highlight reels and compilations online celebrating her best interview moments.

Iconic Interviews that Shook the Morning

One of Hoda’s most memorable influences lies in her exceptional interviewing style. Hoda has an innate ability to put guests at ease, making them feel comfortable enough to share personal stories and insights. From heartfelt interviews with celebrities discussing their struggles with mental health to laugh-out-loud moments with ultra-funny comics, each interaction had a unique flavor of authenticity and relatability.

Among the most talked-about interviews was when Hoda welcomed Viola Davis, a moment that resonated deeply with audiences. Davis opened up about her experiences with poverty, identity, and the importance of representation in media—a topic that Hoda handled with sensitivity and grace, encouraging an honest dialogue that sparked a national conversation.

Hoda has also not shied away from tackling societal issues and raising awareness around crucial topics. When interviewing guests regarding topics like the #MeToo movement or discussions around systemic injustice, she always conveyed empathy, holding space for those subjects that needed to be illuminated in those pivotal moments. Her interview with Olympic athletes discussing mental health in sports opened the floodgates for transparency in athletics, proving that vulnerability can be a form of strength.

Behind the Scenes: The Woman Behind the Camera

While the audience loved Hoda for her on-screen charisma, it’s her personality behind the scenes that truly enriched the NBC studio environment. Colleagues and crew members have often shared stories about her generous spirit and warm-hearted approach, emphasizing how she treats everyone with equal respect, from executives to production staff. Hoda has established a culture of kindness that resonates with everyone who works on the ‘Today’ show.

When the cameras weren’t rolling, Hoda would often fill the studio with laughter, sharing funny anecdotes and organizing little surprises for her co-workers. This sense of community extended even beyond the studio, as she often led charity efforts for local shelters and nonprofits, affirming her commitment to giving back. Her philanthropy, rooted in personal experience, has made a lasting impact on the communities she has touched.

This dedication also stretched to her advocacy for children’s rights, notably through her work with the National Adoption Foundation. After adopting her daughter Hope, Hoda shared her personal journey, advocating for adoption as a viable and rewarding option for families, thus inspiring many to consider giving a child a forever home.

Eventful Send-off: Hoda’s Last Day on ‘Today’

On her last day, the ‘Today’ show transformed into a stage of love and gratitude. As Hoda shared heartfelt hugs with colleagues, tears flowed freely, and laughter punctuated this bittersweet goodbye. Famous guests dropped in to join the celebration, reminding everyone of the joy Hoda brought into their lives. From celebrity clips to heartfelt tributes from her colleagues, the day encapsulated her essence—the love, laughter, and light she poured into every episode.

No surprise, many fans took to social media sent off Hoda with messages that resonated with her cheerful persona. Hoda’s last ‘Hoda-tion’ during the morning segment was filled with laughter, as she recounted hilarious moments from her time at NBC, eliciting laughter and a sense of nostalgia among the viewers and the studio audience alike.

This incredible send-off also served as a reflection of an evolutionary journey—24 years together with the brand and the deep connections shared along the way. It wasn’t just a farewell; it was a celebration of a legacy that will live on in the hearts of millions.

Final Thoughts from Fans and Colleagues

Viewers expressed their heartfelt sentiments on social media platforms, sharing impactful moments from Hoda’s career that resonated with them. Some recounted the time she graciously handled an awkward moment live on air, showcasing how she turned uncomfortable situations into relatable experiences. Others reminisced about her compassion during sensitive topics, demonstrating the sincerity she brings to journalism.

Her colleagues echoed these thoughts, sharing how she brought people together and focused on building relationships rather than just meeting deadlines. “Hoda has a magical touch that transforms the workspace into a hub of creativity and collaboration,” expressed one producer from the show.

As Hoda takes this next step into a new chapter of her career, it’s evident that her impact on the ‘Today’ show will remain eternal. She has inspired a generation of journalists, and her legacy will continue to resonate within the broadcasting industry. Let’s raise a glass in honor of Hoda Kotb, a true morning icon!

The Legacy of Hoda Kotb: A Lasting Influence on Morning TV

As we bid farewell to Hoda, we don’t just say goodbye to a person but to the embodiment of what morning news should represent—a celebration of life, community, and the human experience. Hoda Kotb transformed the ‘Today’ show into a heartfelt conversation, creating a space where authenticity thrived.

The influence she has had on morning television is truly remarkable. She set the standard for how news can be presented with love and laughter while tackling serious issues. Hoda leaves behind a legacy of grace, humor, and unwavering positivity that will undoubtedly inspire future generations of broadcasters to come.

She has reminded us all to live passionately and to be open to the moments that matter most—no matter how fleeting. Hoda may be signing off from ‘Today’, but her journey is far from over!