On the recent episode of the Today show aired on Tuesday, September 3, viewers noticed the absence of Hoda Kotb, raising curiosity among fans. So, where was she?
Co-anchor Savannah Guthrie stepped in to share the reason for Hoda’s absence, brightening the morning for viewers. “Good morning, everyone! Hoda is off today as it’s the first day of school for her daughters, and she’s with them,” Guthrie explained.
Hoda’s day off coincides with her taking an extended break the previous week to spend quality time with her daughters before the school year began, as reported by Us Weekly. Savannah was also absent last week, focusing on her own family.
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Kotb, 60, is a dedicated mother to her two daughters, Haley, 7, and Hope, 5, whom she adopted with ex-fiancé Joel Schiffman. After announcing their split in January 2022, Hoda recently mentioned a move to a new home, marking a fresh start for her family.
During an August episode of Hoda and Jenna, she remarked on the new adventure, saying, “Everything is new—from kids to school to our surroundings. I really want our home to feel cozy and welcoming for the kids.”
Fans might recall Hoda’s absence earlier this year when her younger daughter faced a serious health challenge. She took a two-week hiatus to be by Hope’s side during her recovery, describing the experience as a difficult period for any parent.
Reflecting on Hope’s resilience, Kotb stated, “Despite her tough experiences, she has blossomed into an incredible kid, ready to take on the world.” This shows that resilience can emerge from adversity, setting the stage for a bright future ahead.