In an emotional farewell, Hoda Kotb bid goodbye to NBC's "Today" show on Friday after an illustrious 17-year run. The beloved host's final broadcast transformed into a celebration dubbed "Hoda-bration," filled with surprises, tears, and heartfelt tributes.
Kotb, who announced her departure in September 2024 to spend more time with her two daughters, began her last day hand-in-hand with co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, saying "One last time, let's do this."
The morning was marked by numerous touching moments, including surprise appearances from NBC personalities and celebrities. Olympic gymnast Simone Biles called Kotb "our Olympic mom," while media mogul Oprah Winfrey offered words of support through a video message, assuring Kotb she had made the right decision for her family.
One of the day's most poignant moments came when country artist Walker Hayes performed "Wednesdays," an unreleased song he wrote with Kotb. The emotional performance brought tears to Kotb's eyes as she mouthed every word of the song about cherishing life's ordinary moments.
Former co-host Kathie Lee Gifford made an unexpected appearance, describing Kotb as "sunshine in a bottle." Jimmy Fallon presented her with a unique farewell gift - a framed piece of carpet from the NBC elevators at 30 Rockefeller Center.
In her final address, Kotb read a heartfelt letter to viewers, calling it "not a goodbye letter, but a love letter," thanking them for supporting her throughout "the ride of a lifetime."
The show concluded with Kotb introducing her entire "Today" crew to the audience before bringing her children on stage for an emotional embrace. She then departed in her minivan, ready to begin her next chapter, which includes walking her daughters to school and embracing a more normal daily rhythm in their new Bronxville home.
Though stepping down from her daily hosting duties, Kotb is expected to continue contributing to NBC News in various capacities.