Hoda Kotb Celebrated a “Fresh Start” After Leaving Today and Thanked Craig Melvin

Hoda Kotb is stepping into a new chapter of her life following her departure from the “Today” show, where she dedicated nearly 30 years of her career. On January 13, 2025, Kotb shared a heartfelt message on social media, embracing the excitement of starting anew. In her post, she urged others around her—including esteemed colleagues Craig Melvin and Savannah Guthrie—to greet new beginnings with open arms. This marks a significant change, both personally and professionally, for the beloved news anchor.
Celebrating New Beginnings

Kotb’s decision to leave was driven by her desire to prioritize family, particularly her daughters, Haley and Hope. As she reflected on her extensive career at NBC, the recent milestone of her birthday prompted her to reassess her priorities. The reflections brought clarity about her path ahead, pushing her to take a step back from her early morning schedule to dedicate more time to her loved ones. In her farewell address aired on January 10, she took a moment to express gratitude for her time on the show and paid tribute to her co-hosts, with particular emphasis on Guthrie, whom she lovingly referred to as her “person.”
Embracing Change with Craig Melvin
Craig Melvin, who has taken over her role on the NBC morning program, received Kotb’s utmost support during this transitional period. Kotb openly praised Melvin’s ability to fit seamlessly into his new role, acknowledging his skills and contributions to the show during her last episode. Her farewell message resonated with fans and colleagues alike, pointing to a strong camaraderie among the show’s hosts. Kotb’s enthusiastic endorsement of Melvin signifies her unwavering belief in his capacity to contribute to the program’s ongoing success.
Looking to the Future
As Hoda Kotb embarks on this new journey, she is determined to maintain her connection with the NBC family, valuing her rich career while also seeking fresh opportunities. This moment of change reflects her personal growth and aspirations for the future, as she prepares to explore new avenues while staying connected to her roots in broadcasting. The uplifting message she shared on social media serves as an inspiration for her followers, urging them to embrace change and seek their own fresh starts.
In a world that often encourages us to push through challenges, Hoda’s story reminds us of the importance of taking a step back. Her journey symbolizes a courageous approach to life’s transitions, and she reinforces the idea that change, while daunting, can also lead to exciting new chapters personally and professionally. As she navigates this exhilarating time, fans and colleagues alike wish her all the best, looking forward to witnessing her next endeavors.
If you’re inspired by Hoda Kotb’s story and are considering your own fresh start, remember that embracing change can lead to new opportunities.
Whether it’s in your career, family life, or personal aspirations, take a cue from Kotb and approach the future with optimism and open-mindedness.