Hoda Kotb is leaving NBC's “Today” in early 2025

Hoda Kotb, an NBC News mainstay who took over as co-anchor of the flagship hours of NBC's “Today” after the ousting of longtime anchor Matt Lauer in 2017, will be leaving the program early next year and not just one, but two important shows are opening roles in the station's flagship morning franchise.

Speaking on the show Thursday morning, Kotb referenced a desire to spend time with two young daughters. She is expected to continue contributing to the program after her departure in early 2025.

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It will be difficult to follow in their footsteps. In addition to hosting the first two hours of “Today” with Savannah Guthrie, Kotb was a regular on the lighter 10 a.m. hour, which she co-hosted with Jenna Bush Hager and Kathie Lee Gifford.

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