The Today Show, known for being a popular morning program, has seen significant changes with long time hosts moving on. This article looks at current host situations, dynamics, as well as what fans can expect in the new era of programming.
Hoda Kotb's Departure and Legacy
Hoda Kotb officially stepped down from her co-hosting role on January 10, 2025, marking the end of her 17 year journey. The show recognized this with what was called the "Hoda-bration" and a proper goodbye was provided with a lot of her previous co-workers returning as well as performances with her help on music writing.
A Celebration of Friendship and Career
Her final show was a display of friendships, with guest appearances and live performances including “Wednesdays” which she co wrote. She was not only recognized for the great things she has done as a professional but as a positive person as well.
Hoda's Career Highlights and Evolution
Hoda faced a good amount of rejection prior to her big break. Before her time at “Today” Hoda was a journalist with Dateline NBC and in order to get that first big career move required only "one blazer" to change everything for her. Also when she took to the co-host positions with Kathy Lee she took off "her news corset" to show her personable fun side which grew through the years.
Style and Substance
Kotb focused on having practical fashion, choosing streamlined items and repeating wardrobe staples rather than chasing fashion fads. Her pragmatism and sentimental values for her career along with all the new life challenges she embraced. Viewers saw a heart felt display of all these components.
Hoda and Savannah's Connection
The connection between Hoda and her co worker Savannah has brought forth some truly moving and wonderful elements that showcase love, respect, and genuine relationships among these professionals. They value one another even as their work partnership comes to an end which will last much beyond their professional interactions.
Savannaha's Send Off
Savannah took a unique approach at Hoda's departure by dressing in all black which was called "mourning" on this day as her partner in television moved on. With great emotion Savannah delivered heartfelt sentiment toward her long time friend and stated that whether they sit next to each other in the studio she will forever be by her side and love her.
New Chapter and Future Role
Hoda is still with NBC however she will transition into a new position that allows time with family while also exploring new areas for career development and passion in broadcasting. Her transition is both a mix of endings while focusing on new paths in areas she will still excel. She also stated that even though her co-hosting position is ending it does not mean she is leaving altogether.
Future Projects
The future includes contributing to “Today”, working on her podcast “Making Space With Hoda Kotb” and reporting from the upcoming Olympics. Her time is now being shifted to areas she excels at while allowing more room for her personal time to expand as her career allows. This is seen as a chance to try new things while maintaining familiarity in the space she has made a positive name in.
Current Changes to Host Lineup
The Today Show announced changes for who will take what shifts going forward which creates new leadership for different parts of the broadcast schedule. These are all talented and dynamic people within NBC’s pool.
New Hosts and Talent
Craig Melvin has taken over the 7 AM broadcasting hour and is doing so while keeping the audience engaged. Also joining in rotation in other slots will be stars such as Taraji P. Henson, Eva Longoria, Keke Palmer, and Scarlett Johansson which makes for a star studded lineup of talent to look forward too.
Emotional Impact and Gratitude
The final episodes and send off included a lot of tears and emotional highs and lows which became the running trend for Hoda’s final days. During her send off the outpouring of love from both colleagues and audience was prevalent. The recognition of a legacy while giving gratitude to the supporters also made for great television.
Expressing Sincere Appreciation
Both Savannah and Jenna stated that it was important for people to be allowed to give Hoda love and say goodbye and thanked all viewers for tuning into their journey on screen as well as supporting Hoda through the good and difficult moments that were displayed in public.
Key Takeaways
- Hoda Kotb has left the “Today” show after a long term of working as a host to explore new areas for career growth with NBC.
- Hoda was known for unique approaches to both her clothing and personality which made her accessible to a diverse population.
- Savannah Guthrie shared a strong personal connection and sadness on having to say good bye as her coworker.
- Craig Melvin now has taken the place as anchor for the 7 am hour and will also be in other rotation segments.
- Various celebrity guest stars will also fill the open host position showing many dynamics for programming choices moving forward.