‘Inspired By You’: Mariska Hargitay Lauds Hoda Kotb’s Decision To Leave Today Show; Says She’d Happily ‘Step In’

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As a lifestyle expert with a rich background in media and a deep appreciation for the power of family, I wholeheartedly admire Hoda Kotb’s decision to prioritize her loved ones over her professional commitments. Having spent 26 years alongside Hoda on the Today show, witnessing her growth and evolution has been an absolute privilege.

Mariska Hargitay extends warm sentiments to Hoda Kotb as she steps down from the Today show due to a desire to focus more on her family and children, as shared during the September 26th episode of the program.

Beyond her fellow hosts Savannah Guthrie, Jenna Bush, and Al Roker, actress Mariska Hargitay endorses Kotb’s choice to depart. Moreover, Hargitay playfully suggested to Guthrie that she could potentially step in as a replacement for the 60-year-old journalist, should the need arise.

During her interview on the program, the actress from Law & Order: SVU expressed to Hoda that she feels a deep sense of pride in her and is incredibly inspired by her choice. On the show, Hargitay openly shared with the hosts, “You have my admiration. I truly cherish you and am so proud and motivated by your actions.

She also mentioned, “I was overjoyed to see you today, and I can’t help but express my gratitude. You see, we’ve been together for 26 years, dear one, which is like being 60 years old together. So, when you made your choice, I responded with a resounding ‘Yes.’

At the same time, the actress left her offer open, telling Guthrie she was willing to jump in whenever needed, expressing her readiness as being “happy to join at any moment.

Regarding Kotb, she chose to step down from the Today show in early 2025 by writing a heartfelt letter to NBC. In this letter, she thanked the cast and crew, expressing her appreciation for their work on the show. She also explained her reasons for ending her long-term association with the program.

Furthermore, during her heartfelt goodbye to both the audience and her well-wishers, Kotb expressed on the show, “I had my children later in life, and I felt they deserved a larger slice of my time. I feel as though we only have a limited amount of time. Consequently, this is the hardest decision I’ve ever made.

She also mentioned, “I will remain here until the end of the year and beyond. Moreover, I will continue to be part of the NBC family, and this decision holds significant importance for me.

Hoda Kotb has been a part of the Today show for the past 6 years.

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2024-10-01 21:38