Hoda Kotb reveals her tips for whoever fills her seat at Today following her upcoming departure

Hoda Kotb reveals her tips for whoever fills her seat at Today following her upcoming departure

As a lifestyle expert with years of experience under my belt, I wholeheartedly agree with Hoda Kotb‘s advice to whoever will be stepping into her iconic seat on the Today show. Her emphasis on being authentic and giving others the opportunity to shine is not only valuable but essential for any successful career in broadcasting or any field, really.


Hoda Kotb has disclosed her strategies for the fortunate journalist taking over her position on the Today show, following her planned departure.

60-year-old Kotb is set to leave the show after a 26-year tenure with NBC News next year. She made her departure official during a live broadcast last month.

In an interview with People, she suggested that the person taking her place should always be completely authentic and true to themselves when appearing on-screen.

In a natural and easy-to-read paraphrase, Kotb, who shares hosting duties for the fourth hour with Jenna Bush Hager and co-anchors Today alongside Savannah Guthrie, suggested that whoever may take over her role in the future should provide their fellow anchor an opportunity to excel or ‘shine.’

If you’re considering that coveted seat, which some believe is the finest on TV, my top suggestion would be to remain genuinely yourself, as authenticity is truly crucial, according to her statement.

Hoda Kotb reveals her tips for whoever fills her seat at Today following her upcoming departure

Another aspect that can add to the charm is finding joy in the company of the person seated beside you. It’s a simple pleasure, but when shared with someone else, allowing them to express themselves freely can make a significant difference. Let’s give others their moment in the spotlight, as no one enjoys being the chatty person at a social gathering who dominates the conversation.

Kotb announced last month that she will be leaving Today early next year.

As a loyal member of our team for all these years, I, myself, took the opportunity during our broadcast to share an unexpected piece of news with my cherished ‘Today’ colleagues – a group I’ve been honored to be part of since 1998 and who I now proudly stand alongside as co-anchor.

Hoda, a veteran at NBC News for 26 years, found herself tearing up while discussing with her colleagues that reaching the age of 60 represented a significant milestone, prompting her to consider pursuing fresh opportunities.

The well-known television personality, rumored to make approximately $8 million annually, penned a heartfelt note to her co-workers, expressing the difficult choice she made. Additionally, she mentioned that reaching her 60th birthday triggered a profound change in her life.

In this moment, Hoda expressed her feelings as if different parts of her emotions were scattered everywhere. She acknowledged she was taking the correct action, yet it was a difficult choice. Her connection with everyone is what makes it so hard. She mentioned that sometimes two things can be right at the same time, and she’s experiencing this truth very deeply now. What she wants to share is her love for them, but she also feels it’s time for her to depart from the show.

Throughout these past twenty-six years, my career with NBC has been the most enduring and passionate relationship I’ve known. Yet, it feels like more than just a job because you’ve been an integral part of this incredible journey. Reflecting upon our time together, the numbers are astonishing: 26 years at NBC News, ten years dedicated to Dateline, seven years gracing the seven o’clock hour, and sixteen years on the ten o’clock hour.

She continued: ‘I’m picturing your faces and your families and all the ways you’ve lifted me up and inspired me. That’s my heart singing. So many of my professional relationships have become some of my most cherished friendships.’

She continued by delivering an emotional eulogy for her cherished companion, Jenna Bush Hager, expressing profound longing for the people she collaborated with on the beloved morning program, whom she will dearly miss.

Hoda Kotb reveals her tips for whoever fills her seat at Today following her upcoming departure
Hoda Kotb reveals her tips for whoever fills her seat at Today following her upcoming departure

As a lifestyle enthusiast, allow me to express it this way: “Savannah, my solid foundation; Jenna, my unwavering companion; Al, my 30 Rock comrade of three decades; Craig, Carson, Sheinelle, and Dylan, my TODAY family – I’ll deeply miss each one of you.” Furthermore, I extend the sentiment to Libby, Mazz, and Talia, my fearless commanders. The thought of parting ways with TODAY without all of you is agonizing.

The television personality mentioned that she’s given the matter considerable thought over time, asking herself, “Am I really prepared?” However, her sixtieth birthday party on the plaza seemed like a turning point for her, indicating a change in her decision-making process.

With great enthusiasm and approval, it’s clear to me! Reflecting on my career in broadcasting, it has been incredibly significant. A fresh new decade awaits, and my family – daughters and mom – require more of my attention. I’ll miss you all deeply, but I am ready and eager for this change.

Since I’ll be engaged in work until early 2025, there’s ample opportunity for us to discuss the future. At this moment, however, I can assure you that everything will turn out well. Just like the Peacock whose feathers remain undisturbed, regardless of who appears or departs, TODAY and its remarkable team – each one of you – remain steadfast in the face of change, demonstrating both grace and courage.

She expressed: ‘I’m delighted and thankful to continue as a member of the NBC family, having maintained this longest work connection that means so much to me. Rest assured, I’ll stick around. After all, family is forever, and you will always hold a special place in my own.’

Hoda Kotb reveals her tips for whoever fills her seat at Today following her upcoming departure
Hoda Kotb reveals her tips for whoever fills her seat at Today following her upcoming departure

In her heartfelt speech, the celebrity was seen clasping hands with her fellow anchors while expressing that a crucial aspect of her decision was influenced by her two little girls, aged seven (Haley) and five (Hope).

She mentioned: ‘I became a parent later in life, and I believe they should receive a larger share of my time, as we all have an endless supply of time to give.’

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2024-10-09 23:04

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