Carson Daly has expressed mixed emotions over Hoda Kotb’s announcement to step away from the Today show, admitting he “selfishly” isn’t ready to see her go. Kotb, who has been a fixture on the show since 2007, revealed on September 26 that she will be leaving the morning program early next year to focus on her family. While she will remain at NBC in a different capacity, Kotb’s absence from Today will mark a major shift for the show’s team and its audience.
Ahead of his appearance at the Project Healthy Minds Gala, Daly, who joined Today in 2013, spoke exclusively with PEOPLE about Kotb’s decision. “Selfishly, when she does eventually go, I won’t be able to see her every day,” Daly said, describing their bond as one that can’t be manufactured. “When you love somebody… it is such a family. It can’t be faked.”
Daly jokingly referenced the early hours required for the show, acknowledging that working at that “ungodly hour” makes it even more important to genuinely enjoy the company of one’s colleagues. “When you actually love the people you work with, it makes it that much more enjoyable,” he continued. “So that was my first thought. My second thought was just being so happy for her that she’s made a decision that’s better for her and her family and her life moving forward.”
Kotb, 60, made the decision to prioritize time with her two young daughters, Haley, 7, and Hope, 4. She recently moved to a new home in the suburbs, where she aims to focus on raising her girls and enjoying their early years together. During her on-air announcement, Kotb was surrounded by co-hosts Al Roker, Savannah Guthrie, Craig Melvin, Jenna Bush Hager, and Sheinelle Jones, all of whom have voiced support for her choice.
Roker also shared his thoughts on Kotb’s exit during the Food & Wine Classic in Charleston, reflecting on his own experiences as a father. “I’m just so thrilled for her that I can’t possibly feel any sadness,” he said, adding that he understands Kotb’s desire to cherish these fleeting moments with her children.
Daly admitted that there hasn’t yet been any discussion of who might replace Kotb. “There’s quite a lot of time for that,” he said, noting that the priority for now is to celebrate Kotb’s contributions to Today. “We’re celebrating her and glad she’s still in the building,” Daly said, adding that he and the team are “absolutely” cherishing their remaining time with her on the show.
As Kotb prepares to transition out of her role, her Today family is holding close to the bonds they’ve formed over the years. “I know none of this would have been possible without Today,” Daly said. “She’s truly the best.”
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