Actor Jason Segel made Today show host Hoda Kotb emotional with a heartfelt farewell during his recent appearance. Segel, 44, who stars in the show Shrinking, spoke warmly to Kotb, 60, during the Wednesday, October 16 episode.
Kotb had announced that she would be leaving Today, after 17 years as an anchor, and Segel wanted to let her know how much he appreciated her.
“I’m gonna miss you when you’re gone,” Segel said, referring to Kotb’s upcoming departure. “I just want you to know — these interviews have been some of the best of my whole career, so I’m really grateful to know you,” he added. Kotb was visibly moved by his words, with tears in her eyes as she simply replied, “Wow, thanks,” before standing up to hug Segel.
Kotb’s exit from the Today show, which she announced on September 26, has touched many viewers and her colleagues. She shared the news in a letter to NBC staff, explaining that while she knew she was making the right decision, it wasn’t easy.
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Kotb said her decision was about spending more time with her two daughters, Haley, 7, and Hope, 4, both of whom she adopted later in life.
“My heart is all over,” Kotb wrote in her letter, adding, “I know I’m making the right decision, but it’s a painful one.” She explained how difficult it was to leave behind the team and the show she loved, but also knew it was time to move on. “I love you and it’s time for me to leave the show,” Kotb said.
During a live broadcast, Kotb opened up about her decision, explaining that her daughters “need and deserve a bigger slice of my time pie.” Kotb has often spoken about the joy of being a mother, especially since she became a mom later in life. She said that after turning 60, she reflected on what she wanted for the next phase of her life.
“I’ve been thinking about what I wanted this next chunk of my life to look like,” Kotb told PEOPLE magazine. “I like adventure, I like new beginnings.” She added, “I’m a sunrise person and not a sunset person,” explaining how she prefers starting new chapters rather than holding on to old ones.
Kotb also shared how her youngest daughter, Hope, has been dealing with health issues. In February 2023, Hope faced a serious medical problem that caused Kotb to take time off from the show. Thankfully, she said Hope is now “thriving” and improving.
“We’re in a place where Hope is thriving. She is improving, we’re watching her, and I think as time goes on, we’ll have a better handle on it,” Kotb explained, feeling grateful for the excellent care her daughter has received.
Even though staying at NBC might have provided more financial stability and job security, Kotb said she couldn’t help but think about what she was missing by not spending more time with her kids. “It does make more sense to stay at NBC,” she said. “But I’ve been watching my kids and I was thinking to myself, I wonder what I’m missing?”
Kotb, who will remain with Today until early next year, said she wants her next chapter to focus on her daughters and the time they spend together. She has received lots of support from fans, coworkers, and viewers for her decision to prioritize her family.
As for Jason Segel, viewers can catch him in the new season of Shrinking, which premieres on Apple TV+ on October 16, 2024.
