Today show fans have worried about the lengthy absence of Hoda Kotb. And rumors swirled about the possible reasons. However, one of the Today show team did share that a family health concern had sparked Hoda’s temporary departure.
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And this week, Kotb finally made her return. She also shared the reason leading to her absence from the show. Get all the details below.
Today Show – Co-Host Hoda Kotb Explains Absence
Hoda Kotb didn’t waste any time in clearing up the mystery of her absence. And she began her return to the Today show by sharing details on what the team had described as a health-related family concern. Turning to her co-host Savannah Guthrie, Hoda revealed that her youngest child had spent time in the hospital, reported Page Six.
“My youngest [daughter], Hope, was in the ICU for a few days,” revealed Kotb. And in addition to the child’s ICU stay, Hope spent time “in the hospital for more than a week,” added the news anchor. But the 58-year-old Today show fan fave quickly turned to the topic of gratitude.
And Hoda shared, “I’m so grateful she’s home. We are watching her closely. I am just so happy.” And Kotb also shared her appreciation for those who supported her during her 3-year-old daughter’s health crisis.
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Hoda Kotb – Becomes Tearful Discussing Family Health Scare
The popular Today show co-host couldn’t hold back her tears as she reflected on the frightening experience. And Kotb gushed her gratitude for “the doctors and the nurses. I’m grateful to my family.” Because Hoda has become close to Savannah, she also thanked “friends like you who were there every single day.”
The episode ended the mystery that began when the Today show aired without Hoda. And the producers waited about two weeks before turning over the explanation to Craig Melvin. However, he protected Kotb’s privacy by holding back details.
But Melvin did acknowledge that fans had worried about Hoda. And he began, “We know a lot of you have been wondering how she’s doing.” As a result of fan concern, he added, “We can tell you that Hoda is OK.” But he said only that she took time off to cope with a “family health matter.”
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However, Kotb did share an occasional post on Instagram during her absence. But she limited her posts to inspirational quotes. And that didn’t help ease the concerns of worried fans.
But in his attempt to respond to viewer questions, Melvin sought a positive approach. And he shared that the Today show team looked “forward to seeing Hoda and Savannah [Guthrie] back here at the desk very, very soon.” Substitutes during Hoda’s absence included Willie Geist, Carson Daly, and Today show weatherman, Al Roker.
Tell us what you think. Do you feel that the Today show made the right decision to withhold details about Hoda Kotb’s absence? And after you share your views, check back on our site for more TV news.