Hoda Kotb, a beloved face of morning television, announced tearfully on the September 26 episode of TODAY that she will be leaving the show early next year. The 60-year-old co-anchor shared that her milestone birthday in August prompted deep reflection and a desire for change. "I realized that it was time for me to turn the page at 60 and to try something new," she said on air. "I remembered standing outside looking at these beautiful bunch of people with these gorgeous signs, and I thought, 'This is what the top of the wave feels like for me.'"

Kotb’s departure marks the end of an era for TODAY, where she has co-anchored alongside Savannah Guthrie for more than five years. In a heartfelt letter to the TODAY staff, she expressed the difficulty of her decision. "As I write this, my heart is all over the map," she shared. "I know I’m making the right decision, but it’s a painful one. And you all are the reason why." The news caught many off guard, though Kotb made it clear that while she’s leaving TODAY, she will remain a part of the NBC family.

With nearly three decades at NBC News, Hoda has been a prominent figure in American journalism, starting with Dateline and later co-hosting the fourth hour of TODAY with Kathie Lee Gifford, and then Jenna Bush Hager. "My time at NBC has been the longest professional love affair of my life," Kotb reflected. "Twenty-six years at NBC News — Ten years at Dateline, seven on the seven o’clock hour, and sixteen on the ten o’clock hour. Looking back, the math is nuts."

As she prepares to turn the page, Kotb spoke about the relationships that have defined her time at NBC. "I’m picturing your faces and your families and all the ways you’ve lifted me up and inspired me," she said with emotion. "So many of my professional relationships have become some of my most cherished friendships." Though stepping away from her daily role, Hoda’s presence in the NBC family will continue, as she looks forward to what’s next.