Hoda Kotb Returns to the “Today” Show Less Than 2 Months After Her Exit

Hoda Kotb Makes a Surprise Return to the ‘Today’ Show in Less Than 2 Months

Hoda Kotb, a familiar face on the ‘Today’ show, recently surprised fans by making a special appearance on the 3rd Hour of Today, less than two months after her exit from the show. The former co-anchor was seen greeting her co-workers, Craig Melvin, Al Roker, and Dylan Dreyer, who were broadcasting live from New Orleans in celebration of Mardi Gras. Roker, teasing the surprise, introduced a video message from Kotb where she jokingly expressed her disbelief at her colleagues being in her beloved city without her. Kotb playfully remarked on the food, music, and the unique charm of New Orleans, fondly calling it the best city on earth.

Being a former anchor and reporter for a local CBS affiliate in New Orleans, Kotb has always shared a special bond with the city. Her connection with New Orleans is evident through her support for the local sports team, the New Orleans Saints, and her involvement in community events like giving the commencement speech at Tulane University in 2016. Kotb has often expressed her deep love for the vibrant and magnetic city, describing it as the closest she has felt to a hometown. Her emotional response to the recent terrorist attack on Bourbon Street highlights the deep connection she has with the city she considers her second home.

Since her departure from the Today show in January after a remarkable 14-year run, Kotb has been mentioned on the show numerous times but has not made a physical appearance until now. This special return comes as a heartwarming surprise to her fans who have missed her presence on the show. Despite stepping down from her role to focus on spending more time with her two daughters, Haley Joy and Hope Catherine, Kotb continues to stay connected with her colleagues and friends. Recently, she made a surprise appearance at a book event for her former co-anchor, Savannah Guthrie, showcasing the strong bond they share.

In her departure announcement in September 2024, Kotb assured fans that she would continue to be part of the NBC family, hinting at future projects and collaborations. Apart from dedicating time to her daughters, Kotb has also hinted at an upcoming wellness venture, reflecting her evolving interests in the wellness space. She expressed plans to launch a wellness app, host retreats, and start a podcast to share her insights on leading a calmer and healthier life. Kotb’s diverse interests and commitment to personal growth continue to inspire her audience, showcasing a multi-faceted approach to life beyond television.

As Kotb rejoins her Today show family for a special moment, the joy and camaraderie shared among the team are evident. Her brief return serves as a reminder of the lasting relationships she has built during her time on the show and the impact she continues to have on her colleagues and viewers. While her future projects remain a source of intrigue for fans, Kotb’s presence on the show once again brings a sense of warmth and familiarity, reaffirming her enduring legacy in the world of television journalism.