Hoda Kotb announces departure from Today Show to focus on family and "new adventures"

Hoda Kotb, a longtime anchor on NBC's "Today" show, announced on Thursday that she will be leaving the program in 2025. The emotional announcement comes after 26 years with the network.

Kotb, who turned 60 in August, said that the milestone birthday prompted her to re-evaluate her priorities. She expressed a desire to spend more quality time with her two daughters, Haley Joy (7) and Hope Catherine (5), whom she adopted in her 50s. "I want my kids to have more of my pie," Kotb said.

Beyond prioritizing her family, Kotb also hinted at a yearning for new challenges. "I had something that has been kicking around in me but I kept kind of pushing it down," she revealed, referring to a desire to explore new ventures. She mentioned the possibility of pursuing "entrepreneurial skills" in her next chapter.

Kotb's decision highlights the growing trend of career reevaluation at milestone birthdays. Psychologists suggest that these moments can trigger introspection and inspire people to make significant life changes.

While Kotb will be stepping down from her anchoring duties, she will not be severing ties with NBC entirely. Details regarding her future role within the network were not disclosed.

Kotb's dedication to "Today" was evident in her emotional farewell to the show's staff. "I'll be around," she wrote in a letter. "How could I not? Family is family and you all will always be a part of mine."