Jenna Bush Hager recently had an emotional moment as she called her father, former President George W. Bush, in tears to discuss Hoda Kotb’s shocking departure from NBC’s “Today Show.” The emotional conversation came after Kotb, her co-anchor on “Today with Hoda and Jenna,” announced that she would be leaving the iconic show after 26 years at the network. The news deeply affected Bush Hager, prompting her to seek comfort from her father.
A Full Circle Moment for Jenna Bush Hager and Hoda Kotb
During the Thursday episode of “Today with Hoda and Jenna,” the two co-hosts spoke about Kotb’s unexpected decision to leave the show. Jenna recalled how, when she first started co-hosting with Hoda in 2019, she was nervous and called her dad, George W. Bush, for advice. Kotb remembered the moment, laughing and encouraging Jenna to share the story.
Bush Hager explained that her father was proud of her achievement but also reminded her that “Hoda is the star.” Fast forward to Kotb’s announcement, and Bush Hager once again found herself calling her dad, crying over the bittersweet news. Her father initially thought something tragic had happened, but after learning the reason, he assured her, “It’s your turn now. You’ll be fine.”
Hoda Kotb’s Emotional Farewell to the “Today” Show
Hoda Kotb, who has been a beloved part of the NBC family for more than two decades, explained that leaving the “Today” show was a difficult decision. Kotb, aged 60, has been with the show since 1998, starting as a correspondent on “Dateline NBC” before co-hosting “Today” alongside Kathie Lee Gifford. After Gifford’s retirement in 2019, Bush Hager stepped in to take her place.
During the tearful episode, Kotb expressed her admiration for Bush Hager, praising her as a “bright light” and ensuring her that whoever takes over will have an easy job because they will be sitting next to someone so talented. Kotb added, “It’s your turn. You are this bright light, and you always have been.”
Kotb’s Plans After Leaving NBC
Although it was an emotional announcement, Kotb’s decision to leave both “Today” and “Today with Hoda and Jenna” stems from her desire to prioritize her personal life. She shared that she plans to spend more time with her two adopted daughters, Haley, 7, and Hope, 4.
Kotb’s heartfelt reasoning was that it was time to choose herself and focus on her family, saying, “This decade, I’m going to have to start choosing me.” She plans to continue working with NBC in some capacity but will officially depart from her full-time role at the beginning of 2025.
Jenna Bush Hager’s Reaction to the News
When Kotb initially broke the news to her co-host, Jenna Bush Hager had what she described as a “crazy” reaction, telling her that she couldn’t imagine the show without her. “No! You can’t leave, because what we have here is magical and powerful,” Bush Hager said. The two hosts then shared a tearful exchange on air, reflecting on the strength of their bond and the “one in a million” experience they’ve had working together over the past five years.
A Legacy of Friendship and Co-Hosting
Kotb’s departure marks the end of an era for “Today.” However, her legacy of professionalism, friendship, and her significant contributions to the show will be remembered by fans and colleagues alike. As Kotb moves into a new chapter, Bush Hager will carry the torch, stepping into the spotlight her father assured her she was ready for.
While the “Today” show will undoubtedly change with Kotb’s exit, her influence will continue to resonate. As she gracefully transitions to focus on her family and personal life, her fans and co-workers will undoubtedly miss her warmth and energy on screen.
