Hoda Kotb, a fixture on NBC's "Today" show for over two decades, has announced her departure from the morning program in early 2024. The decision comes as Kotb approaches her 60th birthday this summer, prompting her to reevaluate her priorities and make room for her growing family. In a heartfelt on-air reveal, Kotb shared her decision with her co-workers and viewers, citing her need to devote more time to her daughters, Haley and Hope, as well as her mother.

Kotb has been a staple on the "Today" show since 2007, initially joining as a correspondent for "Dateline" in 1998. She took over as co-anchor of the first two hours of the morning show alongside Savannah Guthrie in 2018, following the departure of Matt Lauer. During her tenure, Kotb has become known for her warm and relatable personality, making her a beloved figure in many viewers' lives.

However, Kotb's decision to leave "Today" is not unexpected. As she approaches middle age, it's natural to reassess one's priorities and make changes to ensure a fulfilling life. Her planned departure leaves a significant gap in NBC's morning lineup, as the network tries to regain its top spot from ABC's "Good Morning America."

Imani M. Cheers, an associate professor of digital storytelling at the George Washington University, believes Kotb's decision marks a new chapter in her life, one that will be filled with exciting opportunities. "I think it's a huge loss, but I am so excited to see what she's going to do next," she said. "She was able to bring a brevity and just a bubbly light touch, but also could be someone that's going to talk about very serious and heavy topics. She's trusted. You feel that if she's reporting that it's going to be fair and it's going to be balanced. And that is really hard to come by."

A New Chapter for a Beloved Morning Anchor

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