Hoda Kotb Wanted to Be Home More After Daughter Hope’s Illness in 2023

Hoda Kotb Reflects on Priorities After Daughter’s Health Scare

In a recent revelation, Hoda Kotb opened up about the profound changes in her life following her youngest daughter Hope’s serious health issues. An insider shared with Closer Weekly that the challenges Hope faced in 2023 played a crucial role in Hoda’s decision to step back from her role on the Today show.

“This has been on her mind for quite some time, but it became even more pressing when Hope fell ill last year,” the source conveyed. “Hoda took a hard look at her priorities and came to realize that she wanted to spend more time at home.”

In February 2023, Hoda, aged 60, took a significant leave from the Today show while Hope was hospitalized due to an undisclosed ailment. Speaking to her audience, Hoda expressed immense gratitude upon her daughter’s return home. “Hope was in the ICU for several days and in the hospital for just over a week,” she recounted. “I’m thankful she’s back home, and we’re keeping a close watch on her.”

Hoda singled out the exceptional care from the medical team at Weill Cornell, as well as the unwavering support from family and friends during this difficult period. Her co-hosts on Today filled in for her during her absence, demonstrating solidarity in a time of need.

In May 2023, during National Nurses Week, Hoda shared a heartfelt update on Hope’s health. “I remember a moment when a nurse walked in at 3 a.m., placing her hand on my back without saying a word. That comfort was invaluable during our time in the hospital,” she reminisced.

Hoda’s emotional journey included a touching moment when she requested to bathe her daughter, which became a significant memory amidst the chaos. “I desperately wanted to give Hope a bath, and we improvised with a small plastic basin in the shower. It might have seemed trivial, but at that moment, it meant everything.”

On September 26, Hoda made the emotional announcement about her impending departure from Today, citing the significant role her children play in her life. “Having my kids later in life opened my eyes to the need for a larger portion of my time to be dedicated to them,” she reflected. “We all have a limited amount of time, and it’s tough to leave.”

While she plans to exit the talk show in early 2025, Hoda will continue her association with NBC, embarking on a new chapter in her professional journey.