In a deeply personal revelation, former TODAY co-anchor Hoda Kotb shares why she stepped away from the iconic morning show, citing her 6-year-old daughter Hope’s recent diagnosis with type 1 diabetes. During her first television appearance since leaving in January, Hoda explained how the constant monitoring and care needed for Hope led her to prioritize family. Her powerful message sheds light on the challenges of balancing a demanding career and motherhood, while offering a glimpse into her new wellness journey. Get all the emotional details inside!

Hoda Kotb Opens Up About Her Today Show Exit and Daughter’s Type 1 Diabetes Diagnosis

Hoda Kotb has finally broken her silence about her unexpected departure from the Today show, offering fans an emotional and heartfelt update. During her first television appearance since leaving the morning show in January, the 60-year-old broadcaster shared the reason behind her decision to step down from her position. In addition to discussing her exit, Hoda also revealed that her six-year-old daughter, Hope, has been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes—something that significantly impacted her decision to prioritize family over work.

The Decision to Leave Today

On Wednesday, May 28, Hoda opened up about the challenging but necessary decision to leave Today, explaining that her primary motivation was to spend more time with her daughters, Haley Joy and Hope. “It’s a priority check in your life,” she said, acknowledging how much of her attention had been consumed by her children’s needs while working on the show. Hoda noted that, as a mother, it was difficult to balance her demanding career with the constant monitoring required for Hope’s health condition.

Though Hoda’s decision was driven by multiple factors, her daughter’s recent diagnosis of type 1 diabetes played a significant role. “It definitely weighed in,” Hoda admitted, revealing that managing Hope’s health has become a 24/7 responsibility.

Hope’s Type 1 Diabetes Diagnosis

Hoda shared that Hope’s diagnosis came after the little girl displayed symptoms that seemed like the flu. “She looked like she had the flu, and we literally had to race to the hospital,” Hoda recalled. After taking Hope to the hospital, they discovered that it was actually type 1 diabetes, a chronic autoimmune disease that impacts the body’s ability to produce insulin.

Type 1 diabetes, as Hoda explained, requires constant vigilance, with frequent checks on Hope’s blood sugar levels throughout the day. Hoda mentioned how much time she spent monitoring Hope—“five minutes at breakfast, five minutes at lunch, five minutes at dinner, sometimes overnight”—and how those moments add up, totaling approximately 30 minutes each day dedicated solely to managing her daughter’s health.

“It just becomes part of your routine,” Hoda explained. “For 23 and a half hours, she’s like every other kid.” She emphasized that while Hope is mostly fine, the constant monitoring is necessary to ensure her safety and well-being, especially in those critical moments when her blood sugar may fluctuate.

The Emotional Toll of Parenthood and Public Life

For Hoda, the challenge of managing her daughter’s health while being a public figure was becoming increasingly difficult. “You just get a priority check in your life,” she said, reflecting on how the tension between her family and professional life had been weighing on her. As a parent, Hoda’s desire to be present for her children, especially in moments when Hope’s health needed immediate attention, made it clear that it was time for her to step back.

Her decision to leave Today was not easy, but as she explained, it was the right choice to ensure she could give Hope the attention she needed. “I can be here and sweating what’s happening to Hope in the morning and in the night, or I can be there and feel relief that I can see,” Hoda said, acknowledging the emotional strain of trying to balance both aspects of her life.

Hope’s Early Symptoms and the Journey to Diagnosis

Hoda opened up about how Hope’s symptoms initially seemed like the flu, but after taking her to the hospital, they discovered the true cause. Type 1 diabetes, if left untreated, can cause extreme thirst, excessive urination, fatigue, and weight loss, among other symptoms. Hoda’s emotional recounting of those early days highlighted the shock and fear that many parents feel when faced with a health crisis.

In addition to her work on Today, Hoda has also focused on expanding her career in a new direction, launching a wellness brand that emphasizes community, personal well-being, and health. This new venture includes an app, website, courses, and live events—all geared toward helping others live healthier, more balanced lives.

The Next Chapter: A New Career Path and Family Focus

Hoda’s departure from Today in January followed a long and successful career on the show. She had been a beloved co-anchor for many years, known for her warm personality, compassionate interviews, and relatable approach to life. After announcing her decision to step down in September 2024, Hoda has embraced a new chapter in her professional journey.

While she is no longer hosting Today, Hoda has found fulfillment in her wellness brand and has expressed how grateful she is for the opportunity to focus on her family. “I’m lucky that we found the cancer so early; I’m lucky to be my son’s mom,” she shared in a previous update regarding her health journey. The new venture also reflects her personal values of health, wellness, and the importance of family, which have become central to her life.

A New Beginning for Hoda Kotb and Her Family

As Hoda transitions into this new chapter, fans have shown overwhelming support for her decision to prioritize her family’s well-being. Her openness about Hope’s diagnosis has allowed many parents in similar situations to relate to her experience, and her message of resilience continues to inspire.

Despite stepping away from Today, Hoda Kotb remains a beloved figure in American television. Her new focus on wellness and personal growth reflects her evolving journey as both a mother and a public figure. As she navigates her new role and motherhood, fans will continue to cheer for her and the path she’s chosen—one that values family, health, and happiness above all.