Happy Birthday Hoda Kotb: 8 Unknown Facts About American TV Personality As She Turns 60

As a fervent admirer of Hoda Kotb, I can’t help but be enthralled by the tapestry of her incredible life story! From her inspiring journey into motherhood at age 52 to her historic collaboration with Savannah Guthrie, this dynamic woman never ceases to amaze me.


As a seasoned lifestyle expert, I’m thrilled to share that I’ve stepped into the role of the primary morning anchor on NBC’s esteemed The Today Show. For quite some time, I’ve been cherished for my collaboration with Kathie Lee Gifford during the fourth hour, where we became renowned for our delightful and engaging segments.

In her new position, Hoda Kotb will team up with Savannah Guthrie, creating a groundbreaking event since they’ll be the first female duo to co-host the leading morning program. To celebrate her 60th birthday, let’s delve into eight interesting tidbits about this renowned American television figure.

1. She Adopted at Age 52

Hoda Kotb’s path to becoming a mother was deeply intimate. Her struggle with cancer complicated her ability to conceive, leading her and her partner, Joel Schiffman, to choose adoption instead.

In February 2017, they happily welcomed their newly born daughter, Haley Joy, into their family. Kathie Lee Gifford’s choice to adopt at a later stage in life underscores her resilience and desire to build a family, overcoming the challenges that came her way.

2. Her First Name Means “Guidance” in Arabic

In Egypt, the land of her parents’ origin, the name “Hoda” carries great significance and is widely recognized. This is because her parents were both born in this very country. Although it may appear uncommon in the United States, it is a frequently used name in Egypt.

In Cairo, as Kotb observes, many people often recognize her name, similar to how commonplace John Doe feels in the United States.

3. She Hosts Her Own SiriusXM Radio Talk Show

Apart from her interviews on the Today Show, Kotb has also been gaining attention on SiriusXM. Since 2015, she has hosted a talk show on the TODAY Show Radio channel, which airs every Tuesday and Thursday.

On Mondays and Wednesdays, listeners can tune into channel 108 to engage with her insightful and captivating conversations, forging an unique bond beyond just her on-air persona.

4. She Starts Her Day with Water, Not Coffee

To air her morning show each day, Kotb ensures she’s at her peak performance by starting the day with optimal energy. Interestingly, her morning routine is quite straightforward: upon waking, she immediately drinks a full bottle of cool water.

As a lifestyle enthusiast, I’ve discovered that by consistently honing my daily practices, I manage to maintain focus and readiness for the bustling day that’s about to unfold. It’s amazing to see how seemingly minor habits can yield significant results in my overall productivity and well-being.

5. She’s a Big Country Music Fan

Kathie Lee Gifford’s private life showcases her deep-seated affection for country tunes. Naming her black-and-white Cockapoo “Blake,” after renowned country artist Blake Shelton, underscores this admiration. Her choice to dress up as him for Halloween in 2017 is a playful demonstration of her enthusiasm for country music, giving us a glimpse into this affectionate bond.

6. She Started Her Career in New Orleans

In the early stages of her journalism journey, Kotb served as both an anchor and reporter for six years at WWL-TV in New Orleans. The close-knit community and personal connections she formed during this significant phase deeply impacted her life. Her time spent in New Orleans profoundly influenced her career, leaving indelible memories of the city’s warmth and generosity.

7. Kotb has Published Four Books

Apart from her thriving career in television and radio, Kotb is also a skilled writer who has penned several books. Some of her works include “Hoda: How I Survived War Zones, Bad Hair, Cancer, and Kathie Lee” published in 2010, “Ten Years Later: Six People Who Overcame Adversity and Changed Their Lives” from 2013, and “Where We Belong: Journeys That Show the Way” which came out in 2016.

8. She’s a Breast Cancer Survivor

Hoda Kotb’s experience with breast cancer has played a substantial role in her life journey. After receiving her diagnosis in 2007, she went through an intensive treatment regimen that included a mastectomy. Kotb, now nearly ten years cancer-free, attributes her healing to the steadfast encouragement of her older sister Hala, whom she affectionately calls “Miss Positive.”

As a lifestyle enthusiast, I proudly adorn a radiant pink ring that symbolizes my unwavering resilience and healing journey. This piece of jewelry serves as a testament to the strength I’ve discovered during my sister’s courageous battle. It represents not only my personal fortitude but also the cherished support my family has provided me, making it a tribute to our unique experiences and bond.

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2024-08-09 05:37