Hoda Kotb may have stepped away from her long-running role on the Today show, but one
thing that hasn’t changed is her unwavering bond with Jenna Bush Hager. Their friendship continues to shine, proving that even major career changes can’t break the ties between two people who have shared countless moments on and off the air.
On Tuesday, March 11, Kotb, 60, made a heartwarming surprise visit to her former co-host
backstage before the morning meeting of the newly rebranded Today with Jenna & Friends. The emotional reunion was captured on video and later shared across the show’s Instagram and TikTok accounts, giving fans a glimpse of the enduring camaraderie between the two women.
The clip opens with Kotb walking into the makeup and dressing room, where she’s immediately greeted with joy and excitement. Bush Hager, 43, visibly shocked and thrilled, exclaims, “What is happening?! What is happening?! I FaceTimed you today,” before leaping from her chair to embrace Kotb. The two share a heartfelt hug, radiating genuine affection — a moment that reflects their close friendship built over years of working side by side.
Kotb, never one to miss an opportunity to spread positivity, then turns to Bush Hager’s guest co-host for the day, NBA legend Dwyane Wade, to offer some encouraging words. “You’re crushing it! You’re so good,” she tells him enthusiastically, showcasing her trademark warmth and support. The clip concludes with Kotb greeting other members of the crew, bringing an infectious energy to the room. The caption accompanying the video summed it up perfectly: “We had the best surprise in our briefing meeting this morning!! @hodakotb dropped in to show her love and support for @jennabhager and @dwyanewade 🫶 #JennaandFriends.”
Kotb officially announced her departure from Today in September 2024, marking the end of an incredible 17-year run with the iconic morning show. During her tenure, she served as co-anchor alongside Savannah Guthrie and later joined forces with Bush Hager to co-host the show’s beloved fourth hour. The duo quickly became fan favorites, known for their lighthearted banter, heartfelt conversations, and undeniable chemistry.
Following Kotb’s departure, Craig Melvin stepped in to fill her spot alongside Guthrie on Monday, January 13. Meanwhile, the fourth hour of the show underwent a transformation, evolving into Today with Jenna & Friends. This new iteration features Bush Hager leading the charge, accompanied by a rotating lineup of celebrity co-hosts, including stars like Scarlett Johansson, Taraji P. Henson, Eva Longoria, and Keke Palmer.
While the show has embraced this fresh format, the question remains: who will become Bush Hager’s permanent co-host? Fans are eagerly awaiting the announcement — and Kotb is no exception.
“I’m dying to find out who it’s going to be,” Kotb shared during an interview with PEOPLE at the inaugural Runway for Recovery fashion show in New York City this past February. “I’ve been talking with Jenna about it. I keep saying, ‘Who’s going to be our friend forever?’”
Though Kotb has stepped away from the spotlight to prioritize time with her daughters — Haley Joy, 9, and Hope Catherine, 5 — she remains one of Bush Hager’s biggest supporters. Watching from a distance has only deepened her admiration for her longtime friend’s talent.
“It was always clear to me, but it’s even clearer because now I’m watching her have blind dates every week with new co-hosts, and the common thread is how awesome she is,” Kotb said. “She’s incredible. So whoever she chooses is going to be great with her.”
Kotb’s departure may have marked the end of an era for Today, but her lasting impact — and her steadfast friendship with Bush Hager — continue to resonate. The surprise visit was more than just a reunion; it was a reminder that the connections built during their time together extend far beyond the studio. Fans may no longer see Kotb on their screens every morning, but her unwavering belief in Bush Hager’s talent and her genuine love for the Today family remain as strong as ever.
For Bush Hager, navigating this new chapter without her longtime co-host may be bittersweet, but Kotb’s continued presence — even from afar — proves that true friendship doesn’t fade, even when the cameras stop rolling.
Follow us to see more useful information, as well as to give us more motivation to update more useful information for you.
