Kotb took over the co-anchor role of Today when long-standing host Matt Lauer was ousted in 2017. The much-loved TV personality has spent 17 years with Today and 26 years altogether with NBC.

As reported by PEOPLE, in a letter to staff of the NBC morning show, Kotb wrote: “I know I’m making the right decision, but it’s a painful one…

“My broadcast career has been beyond meaningful, a new decade of my life lies ahead, and now my daughters and my mom need and deserve a bigger slice of my time pie. I will miss you all desperately, but I’m ready and excited.”

She added: “Happily and gratefully, I plan to remain a part of the NBC family… I’ll be around. How could I not? Family is family and you all will always be a part of mine.”

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Speaking on Today, Hobt said turning 60 made her realize it was time to “turn the page and to try something new”. Kotb and co-anchor Savannah Guthrie made history as the first female co-hosts of the morning talk show.

Hoda Kotb has revealed she is leaving NBC’s Today Show in a shock announcement. The co-anchor will leave the program in early 2025 but will keep contributing to the program in some way following her departure.

The 60-year-old, who is the main co-anchor of the NBC News morning show Today and co-host of its entertainment-focused fourth hour, said she is leaving to spend more time with her two young daughters