HODA KOTB SHARES EMOTIONAL REFLECTIONS ON AIR

NEW YORK, Aug. 31, 2025 - Veteran television host Hoda Kotb opened up today in two heartfelt interviews about her late father’s influence and the unexpected joys of her life’s second chapter.

In an exclusive interview for Meet the Press, Kotb told moderator Kristen Welker that “the best part of my life started at 50” as she recounted fulfilling her dream job later in life and adopting her two young daughters in her fifties. She described how embracing new beginnings has shaped her outlook:

“I realized that my life now has both a beginning and an end. I get to determine, ‘What am I going to do during this time?’”

Later this morning on Today.com, Kotb grew emotional reflecting on her late father’s enduring presence. When asked what he might say about her life “filled with love and success,” she admitted she’d always longed to hear him say, “I’m proud of you”. She also shared a profound, private moment from her last day at work:

“That morning I woke up and distinctly heard what seemed like him saying, ‘Everything’s going to be just fine.’ I literally leaped out of bed-it felt surreal. And I believe he is, and always has been, watching over me.”

Kotb, who co-anchored NBC’s Today show for nearly two decades, continues to balance her broadcasting career with her role as a mother and wellness entrepreneur. Her candid remarks today underscore the gratitude and resilience that have defined her journey on and off screen.