Rainbow Connections & Tearful Goodbyes: Hoda Kotb’s Last Today
In a tear-jerking farewell that would rival any Paris Fashion Week finale, NBC’s “Today” show transformed into an emotional runway of tributes for the incomparable Hoda Kotb. The beloved anchor, who has been gracing our screens with her infectious warmth for 17 years, took her final bow in a show that put even the most dramatic Met Gala exits to shade.
Picture this, mes amis: There we were, expecting the usual morning news digest – California ablaze, Trump’s latest legal ensemble, and TikTok’s Supreme Court debut – when suddenly, the broadcast morphed into the television equivalent of a star-studded fashion tribute. The guest list? Simply divine. Kathie Lee Gifford, in a move as unexpected as a surprise Beyoncé appearance, ditched her Tennessee commitments for an in-studio reunion that had us all reaching for our Hermès handkerchiefs.
Jimmy Fallon, ever the showman, arrived bearing a gift that could only happen in the hallowed halls of 30 Rock – a framed piece of elevator carpet. Darling, in any other context, it would be tragic, but in the world of morning television, it’s absolutely everything. The media power duo of Maria Shriver and Gayle King (who, yes, still gets mistaken for our departing queen) graced the proceedings with their presence, adding that extra spritz of gravitas to the celebration.
But the real showstopper? Kermit the Frog himself, emerging like an unexpected pop of color in a minimalist collection, serenading Kotb with “Rainbow Connection” – a lullaby she shares with her daughters nightly. The sight of Kotb, flanked by her little ones on that iconic couch, dabbing tears with the precision of a makeup artist at fashion week, was simply chef’s kiss.
At 60, Kotb’s decision to step away for more family time feels like the ultimate power move. After all, what’s more en vogue than prioritizing life’s most precious moments? Craig Melvin will step into her impossibly chic shoes, while Jenna Bush Hager prepares to fly solo in the fourth hour – transitions as smooth as a perfectly executed costume change.
The grand finale? A drive-off in her minivan with her children – because darling, nothing says “I’m living my best life” quite like choosing family over fame. As Walker Hayes performed “Wednesdays,” a song co-written by Kotb herself, we couldn’t help but think: This wasn’t just a goodbye, it was a masterclass in exiting with grace.
