5 Major Updates On Hoda Kotb’s New Chapter After Leaving The Today Show

The landscape of morning television has fundamentally shifted, and as of December 2025, the biggest news surrounding Hoda Kotb is the final announcement of her permanent replacement on the fourth hour of the Today show. After officially stepping down as co-anchor in January 2025, Kotb has transitioned into a new, slower-paced chapter of her life, focusing on family, writing, and personal well-being. The recent reveal of Sheinelle Jones taking her highly-coveted spot alongside Jenna Bush Hager has solidified the end of an era, but for Kotb, it marks the beginning of a powerful new professional and personal journey.

This deep dive explores the latest, most current updates on the beloved broadcast journalist, from her new literary endeavor to the major lifestyle changes she has embraced since leaving the demanding daily grind of New York and the NBC News studios. Her story is a testament to embracing change, proving that the best part of life can truly begin at 50.

Hoda Kotb: A Comprehensive Biography and Profile

Hoda Kotb is an American broadcast journalist, television personality, author, and philanthropist, best known for her decades-long career at NBC News. Her infectious positivity and candid storytelling have made her one of the most recognizable women in American media.

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• Full Name: Hoda Kotb
• Date of Birth: August 9, 1964
• Place of Birth: Norman, Oklahoma, U.S.
• Nationality: American
• Parents: A.K. Kotb (father) and Sameha "Sami" Kotb (mother)
• Education: Virginia Tech (B.A. in Broadcast Journalism, 1986)
• Career Highlights: Began her broadcasting career in 1986. Joined NBC News as a correspondent for Dateline NBC in 1998. Co-hosted the fourth hour of the Today show (initially with Kathie Lee Gifford, later with Jenna Bush Hager) starting in 2007. Served as the main co-anchor of the entire Today show from 2018 until her exit in January 2025.
• Marital Status: Previously engaged to businessman Joel Schiffman (split in 2022).
• Children: Two adopted daughters, Haley Joy and Hope Catherine.
• Notable Works (Author): Includes Where We Belong: Journeys That Show Us The Way, I Really Needed This Today, and her upcoming book, Jump and Find Joy.

The End of an Era: Sheinelle Jones Steps In

The biggest news for *Today* show fans in late 2025 was the official naming of Hoda Kotb's replacement. After a nearly year-long rotation of guest co-hosts following Kotb’s January 2025 exit, NBC News announced that Sheinelle Jones would take the permanent spot next to Jenna Bush Hager on the show's fourth hour.

The reveal, which aired on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, sparked an emotional outpouring from viewers, with Kotb herself responding warmly to the news. Jones, a longtime member of the NBC family, was seen as a natural and beloved choice, finally putting an end to the speculation over who would fill the massive void left by Kotb's departure.

This transition officially closes the door on Kotb's daily presence on the show, though she has returned for numerous official and unofficial appearances throughout the year. Her legacy is one of genuine connection and uplifting storytelling, a standard the new co-host is expected to uphold.

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Hoda's New Focus: Writing and the Book Tour for Jump and Find Joy

Hoda Kotb has channeled her newfound time and energy into her passion for writing and inspiring others. Her highly anticipated new book, titled Jump and Find Joy, is scheduled to hit bookshelves on September 23, 2025.

The book is expected to explore themes of optimism, finding happiness in life's unexpected turns, and the power of positive thinking—concepts that have defined her public persona. To celebrate the release, Kotb is embarking on a dedicated book tour, allowing her to connect directly with her loyal readership and fans across the country. This project highlights her shift from a daily news anchor to a full-time author and motivational voice.

Lifestyle Changes: A Slower Pace and Moving Out of New York

A significant aspect of Hoda Kotb's post-*Today* life is the dramatic change in her personal pace and geography. Since leaving the co-anchor role, she has been settling into a much slower and more intentional lifestyle.

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One of the most notable changes is her decision to move out of New York City. The move signifies a break from the relentless, high-pressure environment of network morning television and a commitment to a quieter life more focused on her family. She has shared glimpses inside her new home as she decorates, illustrating her contentment with this new chapter. This move allows her to prioritize her two adopted daughters, Haley Joy and Hope Catherine, away from the constant spotlight of Manhattan.

This personal evolution aligns with her long-held philosophy that life's greatest rewards came later for her. She famously stated that "the best part of my life started at 50," referencing her dream job and the adoption of her children, proving that professional success can be redefined at any age.

The Legacy of Hoda Kotb and Future Endeavors

Hoda Kotb’s time on the Today show, particularly her partnership with Jenna Bush Hager and the preceding years with Kathie Lee Gifford, established a unique and enduring format for morning talk shows. Her ability to discuss deeply personal topics, from her battle with breast cancer to her journey through adoption, resonated with millions, cementing her status as a cultural icon.

While her daily presence on network television has ceased, her influence continues through her books, occasional television appearances, and her role as a prominent American author. Her future endeavors are expected to center on inspirational speaking, advocacy, and continued work as a journalist on special projects, allowing her to maintain a powerful voice without the daily commitment of a co-anchor. The focus now is on joy, family, and sharing her message of hope and resilience with a broader audience through her writing and public platform.