In a heartfelt conversation at the Food & Wine Classic in Charleston on September 28, veteran weather anchor Al Roker shared his thoughts on Hoda Kotb’s recent announcement to step down from the Today show. Kotb, 60, revealed her decision on September 26, citing the need to focus on her family. Roker, 70, reflected on the bittersweet nature of her exit, stating, “Will I miss her day to day? Sure. But I’m just so thrilled for her that I can’t possibly feel any sadness.”
Kotb, who has been with NBC for 26 years, expressed her emotional decision in a letter to staff, acknowledging the difficulty of leaving while emphasizing the importance of prioritizing her daughters, Haley, 7, and Hope, 4. “I know I’m making the right decision, but it’s a painful one,” she wrote.
During an emotional on-air segment, Roker shared his admiration for Kotb, recalling his support during her breast cancer diagnosis in 2007. He praised her decision to spend more time with her children, emphasizing the fleeting nature of those early years.
As for who might replace Kotb, Roker stated he had “no idea,” but underscored the strength of the Today show, saying, “The show is greater than the sum of its parts.” Kotb will continue in her role until early 2025, remaining part of the NBC family.
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