Hoda Kotb had a tearful moment on December 12’s episode of TODAY after actress Jamie Lee Curtis read her a farewell note. The longtime host is set to leave TODAY in 2025, leaving behind her colleagues Al Roker, Savannah Guthrie, Jenna Bush Hager, Sheinelle Jones, and Craig Melvin.
The scream queen initially mailed the goodbye message to Hoda’s home in September; however, she did not get it. She brought it with her to Tuesday’s episode and asked Jamie to read it instead because she was too emotional to do so.
Hoda Kotb cries while Jamie Lee Curtis reads the content of her heartfelt note
The short but heartfelt note from Jamie read, “Hoda, the long and winding road. Where you go, my hand in yours. Bravo.” The 60-year-old could not hold back her tears as Jamie read the contents of the letter before the interview began. Curtis was still in denial about Hoda’s imminent departure and asked her to reconfirm if it was true.
Jamie could not believe it was going to be her last time sitting with Hoda today, while Hoda was still sitting there sobbing. The film star called attention to her purple pantsuit, saying she opted for the color because it signifies a wound like the one Hoda has caused her by retiring.
The actress praises Hoda Kotb
Jamie showered Hoda with praise for her work ethic, saying the TODAY show will never be the same without her. She promised the TV personality of unending support in whatever she does beyond her retirement. Hoda, in turn, thanked Jamie for impacting the women on the show, including herself.
While announcing the news of her departure in September, Hoda said turning 60 the month before made her want to pursue something new, hence her decision. She is also looking forward to spending more time with her young daughters Haley and Hope, noting that she would be doing school runs herself going forward.