Additional Coverage:
Emotional Reunion on Today Show as Hoda Kotb Visits Jenna Bush Hager
A heartwarming and tearful reunion unfolded on the Today Show set as Jenna Bush Hager welcomed back her former co-host, Hoda Kotb. Kotb, who stepped down from her role in January, returned to the studio to update viewers on her life and explain her departure.
The reunion was palpably emotional for Hager, who teared up as Kotb sat down. “I knew this was going to happen,” Hager admitted, laughing through her tears. “I told [my producer] I was going to cry before I even opened my mouth.”
Kotb was quick to praise Hager’s performance in her absence. “Jenna Bush Hager, you have been literally crushing it since January,” she shared.
“I’ve been watching you every single day. You’ve been incredible.”
The deep bond between the two women was evident, despite the months apart. “You come back and it’s like we haven’t even spent the day apart,” Hager remarked. “I miss you, and I’m so happy for you.”
Kotb’s heartfelt response brought Hager to tears once more. “Being next to you right here feels like breathing to me,” Kotb confessed.
“It always has and it always will…this space between us is sacred. I love you.”
Overcome with emotion, Hager replied, “You know I haven’t cried in six months. I thought my heart was crusted over. I’m so glad to know I still have feelings.”
During her appearance, Kotb opened up about her reasons for leaving the Today Show, revealing her six-year-old daughter Hope’s diagnosis with type 1 diabetes. While not the sole factor in her decision, Kotb admitted it “definitely weighed in.”
She explained the constant monitoring required for a child with type 1 diabetes and expressed her desire to be more present for her daughters. “You just get a priority check in your life,” Kotb stated.
“I can be here and sweating what’s happening to Hope…or I can be there and feel relief that I can see.”
Kotb’s final day as co-anchor was January 10th, following her departure announcement in September 2024.