Let’s talk about a moment of grace in the world of TV. When Hoda Kotb was announced as the new co-host of the Today show on January 2, it marked a significant shift in the morning landscape. But here's the thing—there's no animosity, no bad blood, just a genuine connection that shines through the headlines. At 52 years old, Hoda stepped into this role with grace and humility, and guess what? She got a heartfelt message from none other than Matt Lauer, the very person she's replacing. Now, that's what I call class.
Hoda shared her story with E! News, revealing how meaningful this moment was for her. "He was sweet this morning," she said, reflecting on the messages of support she received. Among them was a simple yet powerful text from Matt Lauer himself: "Congratulations!" But it didn't stop there. He added some heartfelt words that meant the world to Hoda. "It meant the world to me to hear from him," she admitted. "It was really nice." In a world where transitions can sometimes feel cold or contentious, this exchange feels like a breath of fresh air, doesn’t it?
From the Studio to the Screen: A New Era Begins
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Hoda's new role means she'll be co-hosting alongside Savannah Guthrie for two hours every morning starting at 7 a.m. But that's not all—she's also keeping her spot alongside Kathie Lee Gifford during the fourth hour of the morning show. It’s a lot of responsibility, but Hoda seems ready to take it on with her signature warmth and charm. And speaking of Kathie Lee, she had some insightful words to share about Matt Lauer's legacy.
A Legacy of Respect and Admiration
Kathie Lee wasn't shy about sharing her thoughts on the situation. "The whole thing with Matt is not something we want to get into," she explained, emphasizing the complexity of the moment. "We love this man, and we're heartbroken about him being gone. Our sense of joy is tempered by our sense of loss. It’s a bit bittersweet, to be honest. Nobody wants to profit off someone’s pain, but reality is reality. It’s a business, and someone has to move forward. Matt would be the first to congratulate her and wish her well." Those words carry a lot of weight, don’t they? They remind us that even in change, respect and admiration can endure.
It’s clear that Hoda is thriving in this new chapter of her life. Not only will she be spending more time with America every morning, but she’s also embracing her role as a first-time mother to her daughter, Haley. Her friends say she’s found her true calling in motherhood. "Haley is the light of both their lives," one close friend revealed. "Hoda would love for her to have a sibling. Hoda’s a great reporter, but motherhood is definitely her calling." There’s something so beautiful about that, isn’t there? A woman who’s excelling in her career while also finding joy in her family life.
