Let’s just say the TODAY show was not the same without her. Hoda Kotb, the beloved co-host, returned to the TODAY show on Tuesday, September 3, following her maternity leave. But before she stepped back on set, her NBC family made sure she knew just how much they missed her. They put together a touching tribute video that showcased the depth of their camaraderie and the void she left during her absence.
Hoda's Impact on the TODAY Show
It’s no secret that Hoda Kotb is more than just a co-host—she’s the heart of the TODAY show. In the video, Savannah Guthrie opened up about the hole Hoda left in their daily routine. “The thing I missed the most about Hoda is our talks in the makeup room,” Savannah revealed, her voice filled with genuine emotion. “Every single morning, Hoda and I are there, pouring our hearts out to each other. It’s my favorite moment of the entire day. Without her, it just wasn’t the same.”
View this post on Instagram“When you can let your friend know that you love them, that they’re important, that’s the greatest gift we can give to another human being in our lives.” @MariaShriver to @HodaKotb 😭💙
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Al Roker's Heartfelt Admiration
Al Roker, too, expressed his heartfelt admiration for his longtime colleague. In the clip, he’s seen playing around with a cardboard cut-out of Hoda, but even that couldn’t replace the real thing. “I miss my good friend so much. I miss the times we’ve had. I miss our routine,” Al confessed, his tone laced with nostalgia. “You know, this Hoda just seems a little flat,” he joked, trying to lighten the mood as Craig Melvin started dancing with the cardboard cut-out. But deep down, everyone was eagerly waiting for Hoda’s return.
Craig Melvin and Carson Daly Welcome Hoda Back
When Hoda finally walked back into the studio, the TODAY show family erupted with joy. “It’s great to have you back. We missed you, tremendously!” Craig Melvin exclaimed, his excitement palpable. Carson Daly echoed the sentiment, saying, “We’re very excited to have you home because that’s what this is. It’s our home, so welcome home.” It was a moment that reminded everyone just how much Hoda means to her co-workers and viewers alike.
View this post on InstagramShe’s here!!!!!!! ❤️🌈☀️
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Savannah and Al had a few more words for the new mom of two. “Welcome back, Hoda! It hasn’t been the same without you,” Savannah gushed, her eyes sparkling with joy. Al added, “Hoda, it is so good having you back! We missed you and now life is complete.”
After watching the heartfelt video, Hoda was close to tears. “I can’t believe you guys did that piece,” she said, her voice choked with emotion. “Thank you guys so much. That meant the world!” It was clear that Hoda’s return wasn’t just a reunion of co-workers but a celebration of family.
It’s great to have you back, Hoda!
