In a heartwarming and unexpected turn of events, Hoda Kotb made a surprise return to the TODAY Show on May 28, reuniting with co-hosts Savannah Guthrie and Craig Melvin. Fans were delighted as Hoda, who had stepped away from her co-anchor position in January, greeted them in an emotional and playful moment. While on the show, she shared an update on her life, including her daughter Hope’s recent Type 1 diabetes diagnosis. Additionally, Hoda introduced her new wellness brand, Joy 101, offering a deeper look into her personal journey and future plans. The internet can’t get enough of this sweet reunion—could this mark the start of a new chapter for Hoda on TODAY? Click to find out!

Hoda Kotb Surprises Co-Workers on Today Show After Her Departure, Shares Life Update

Hoda Kotb, who made waves when she unexpectedly left Today earlier this year, made a heartwarming return to the show on May 28, surprising her former co-workers and fans alike. After a four-month break, Hoda, now focusing on her family and a new wellness venture, made her first television appearance since her departure to share a life update and promote her new project, Joy 101.

A Surprise Return to the Today Set

Before heading to the studio, Hoda orchestrated a fun surprise for her colleagues, Savannah Guthrie and Craig Melvin, during their on-air segment. In a behind-the-scenes video shared on Today’s social media accounts, Hoda was seen outside the studio, holding a sign that read, “I love Savannah + Craig.” As she stood in the crowd with fans holding signs, Hoda’s playful gesture caught her co-hosts by surprise.

Savannah, laughing, commented, “I was like, ‘Wait, why is there a nice sign for us?’ Only you, Hoda, you’re our fan.” The lighthearted moment added an element of fun to Hoda’s return and set the tone for an emotional reunion with her former co-anchors.

Life Changes: Family First and Hope’s Type 1 Diabetes Diagnosis

During her appearance, Hoda opened up about the personal reasons behind her decision to leave Today in January after seven years as co-anchor. While she admitted that her daughter Hope’s recent diagnosis of type 1 diabetes “definitely weighed in” on her decision, she emphasized that the primary reason was to prioritize her family. “I wanted to spend more time with my daughters, Haley Joy, eight, and Hope, six,” Hoda explained.

Hoda revealed that managing Hope’s condition requires constant vigilance, particularly with the need to monitor her blood sugar levels several times a day. “As anyone with a child who has Type 1 [knows], especially a little kid, you’re constantly watching, you’re constantly monitoring, you’re constantly checking,” Hoda said. “You’re distracted.” She further described the small moments of daily care, from breakfast to dinner, which add up to about 30 minutes of active monitoring, noting that for the rest of the day, Hope is “just like every other kid.”

Hope’s Health Journey and the Emotional Toll

Hoda’s candid revelation about Hope’s health journey marked the first time she publicly discussed the diagnosis. Earlier, in February 2023, she had taken a short leave from Today for a “family health matter,” which she later clarified was related to Hope’s hospitalization. The overwhelming emotions surrounding Hope’s health were understandably difficult, and Hoda’s decision to step back from her high-profile role was an attempt to be there more for her daughter.

Despite the struggles, Hoda remained optimistic, saying, “I’m lucky that we found the cancer so early; I’m lucky to be my son’s mom,” referencing her son, whom she shares with her fiancé, Joel Schiffman.

Launching Joy 101 and New Ventures

Hoda also shared exciting news about her new venture, Joy 101, a wellness brand she created to focus on personal well-being and community support. The platform includes an interactive app and website that provide access to curated content from wellness experts, including courses on breathwork, meditation, sleep, and personal growth.

“I want it to be a retreat in your pocket,” Hoda explained. The platform will also feature virtual events such as “Hoda’s Happiness Hour” and a large-scale event called Joy Fest, scheduled for spring 2026. On June 11, Hoda will host a virtual event with her Today colleagues, Jenna Bush Hager and Savannah Guthrie, where they will discuss “joy, friendship, and all the good stuff in between.”

Setting the Record Straight on Rumors

During the segment, Hoda took a moment to address rumors that she was being considered as a replacement for Kelly Clarkson on The Kelly Clarkson Show. Hoda firmly shut down the gossip with a direct message: “Delete. Not true.” She quickly added, “Do you think, if I ever came back to TV, do you know where the only place I would ever come back to is? Right here!”

Hoda’s words reinforced her love for the Today Show and her commitment to returning to the network in a role that feels authentic to her, surrounded by colleagues and friends who she considers family.

Conclusion: A New Chapter for Hoda Kotb

Hoda Kotb’s return to Today marks a significant moment for both her career and personal life. While she steps back from the daily grind to focus on her family, Joy 101, and her health, her bond with Today remains strong. Fans were thrilled to see her back on the show, even if only for a special guest appearance, and are excited to see what Hoda will bring to her new wellness platform.

Her openness about her personal struggles, her daughter’s diagnosis, and her career shift shows a new chapter for Hoda—one that values family and well-being above all else. Fans continue to support her in this journey, eager to see her thrive in whatever she does next.