Hoda Kotb is leaving “Today” after five years co-anchoring the NBC morning show, and nearly 20 years there in total.
The longtime NBC veteran announced Thursday that she decided upon turning 60 on air last month that “it’s time” to close this chapter of her life. She will finish out the year at the desk, then transition to an as-yet undefined role at the network.
“I realized that it was time for me to turn the page at 60, and to try something new,” recalled Kotb on Thursday’s broadcast.
In a letter penned to the show’s staffers, Kotb wrote that she was “making the right decision, but it’s a painful one.
“And you all are the reason why. They say two things can be right at the same time, and I’m feeling that so deeply right now,” she wrote. “I love you and it’s time for me to leave the show.”
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
