Hoda Kotb returned to national television on November 27, 2025 — co-anchoring Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade alongside former co-anchor Savannah Guthrie and veteran presenter Al Roker. The appearance marked Kotb’s first major on-air role since she stepped down from her full-time duties on Today earlier this year.
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Why This Return Is Significant
Kotb had officially left Today on January 10, 2025, after a long and influential run: she served as co-anchor of the main show from 2018 to 2025 and previously co-hosted the show’s fourth hour from 2007. Her decision to step away was driven by a desire to spend more time with her daughters — particularly to help care for her younger daughter, who lives with Type 1 diabetes.
Her return to host the 2025 Macy’s Parade shows that while she has stepped back from daily morning television, she remains a valued and active part of the NBC family. For many longtime viewers, her presence signaled a sense of continuity and warmth during the holiday season.
What Led to Her Departure from Today
- Kotb publicly announced in late 2024 that she planned to leave Today in early 2025, citing family priorities.
- She emphasized the need to devote more time to her daughters and to be more present for their health and daily lives.
- On January 10, 2025, she delivered an emotional farewell during a special segment popularly dubbed a “Hoda-bration,” marking the end of her nearly two-decade presence at the 30 Rock studio.
Behind the scenes, Kotb also hinted at a shift toward a different lifestyle — one focused on wellness, mindfulness, and quality time rather than the demands of daily broadcasting.
What Kotb Has Been Doing Since Leaving the Morning Desk
Even after stepping away from a regular schedule, Kotb has not vanished from public view. She has kept one foot in media, while exploring new ventures:
- She’s reportedly launching a wellness platform aimed at mindfulness and self-care, reflecting her growing interest in lifestyle and well-being.
- She remains open to select guest appearances on NBC shows, depending on timing and personal commitments. The 2025 Macy’s Parade hosting gig underscores that she remains connected to her broadcasting roots.
This blend of flexibility and visibility suggests Kotb is gradually crafting a new kind of public presence — one that balances professional work, personal well-being, and family life.
2025 Macy’s Parade Highlights
The 99th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City drew massive attention. The broadcast featured:
- Hosts Kotb, Guthrie, and Roker working together again after Kotb’s January departure from Today.
- A lineup of festive floats, balloons, marching bands, and musical performances, bringing holiday cheer to millions of viewers across the U.S.
- A warm and emotional reunion between Kotb and Guthrie — their on-air hug and friendly banter resonated deeply with longtime fans.
For many viewers, Kotb’s appearance felt like a return of a familiar face — a comforting signal that while change is real, some traditions remain.
What Kotb’s Return Could Mean for Her Future
- Her participation in a high-visibility event like Macy’s Parade suggests she may remain a recurring presence at major NBC events.
- The renewed on-air chemistry and fan response could open doors to special segments, guest hosting, or other limited engagements.
- Her growing interest in wellness and lifestyle work points toward a potential new chapter — one where media presence, personal projects, and family balance coexist.
For fans of Kotb, this return offers reassurance: stepping back from a demanding morning schedule doesn’t mean disappearing from the public eye. Her star remains bright, just in a different orbit.
If you’ve followed Hoda Kotb’s journey from Today to now — or have thoughts on where she might head next — share in the comments below. Stay tuned for more updates.