Exclusive: Hoda Kotb Unveils 'Rare' Celine Dion Interview: Revealing Near-Death Experience

Hoda Kotb Teases Her 'Rare' and 'Amazing' Interview With Celine Dion

Celine Dion and Hoda Kotb. Hoda Kotb interviews Celine Dion for a special to air on NBC June 11 at 10 p.m. ET/9 p.m. CT.

Hoda Kotb had an exciting reason to be away from the Today show earlier this week. She had the opportunity to sit down with Céline Dion for the singer's first TV interview since being diagnosed with stiff-person syndrome in December 2022. Kotb shared this special experience on the Thursday, May 23, episode of Today With Hoda & Jenna, mentioning that she traveled to Las Vegas for the interview. It was a rare and meaningful conversation between them.

During the one-hour primetime special on June 11, Céline Dion, 56, will discuss her health battle and her upcoming Prime Video documentary, I Am Céline Dion, premiering on June 25.

Hoda Kotb, impressed by the documentary, expressed how moved she was by it. She mentioned that she couldn't believe what they were able to capture in the film and that she can't stop thinking about it. Kotb also shared that at one point, Céline Dion was very ill and almost died, a fact that Dion herself acknowledges.

Kotb shared that Dion opened up to her about her past struggles, her optimistic plans for a comeback, the impact on her voice, and her current journey. She described Dion as enlightening, beautiful, and amazing.

Kotb also mentioned that the special will include a surprise performance by Dion. She excitedly told her cohost Jenna Bush Hager that they sang together, creating an unforgettable moment.

Dion shared with her fans in a heartfelt video on social media that she had received a diagnosis of a "very rare neurological disorder" in December 2022. She described how stiff-person syndrome, affecting "something like one in a million people," was the reason behind the spasms she had been experiencing.

Hoda Kotb Teases Her 'Rare' and 'Amazing' Interview With Celine Dion

Céline Dion opened up about how the spasms from her diagnosis have impacted her daily life. She mentioned that the spasms have caused challenges with walking and have affected her ability to sing as she normally does. Due to this, she made the decision to cancel her European tour scheduled for February 2023 and postpone additional show dates to 2024.

Céline Dion shared that she has a dedicated team of doctors helping her along with the support of her children, who give her hope. She is putting in a lot of effort with her sports medicine therapist every day to regain her strength and ability to perform, although she admits it has been a challenging journey. Dion is a mother to son René-Charles, 23, and twins Nelson and Freddy, 13, with her late husband René Angélil.

In December 2023, Céline's sister Claudette Dion revealed to Canadian magazine 7 Jours that the pop star is struggling with a lack of muscle control. Claudette expressed her sadness over seeing Céline in this state, highlighting how hardworking and disciplined she has always been. It is Céline's dream to make a comeback to the stage in the future.

Céline made a rare public appearance at the Grammy Awards in February, where she received a standing ovation and presented the Album of the Year award to Taylor Swift. According to a source, she felt surrounded by love and it lifted her spirits.

Another insider shared that Céline's health condition has empowered her and changed her mindset.

A preview of Kotb and Dion’s interview will air Tuesday, June 11, on Today, followed by the full primetime special at 10 p.m. ET.

Editor's P/S:

Celine Dion's recent interview with Hoda Kotb sheds light on her ongoing battle with stiff-person syndrome. It's a rare neurological disorder that has significantly impacted her daily life, including her ability to perform. Dion's resilience and determination are evident as she undergoes extensive rehabilitation to regain her strength. The upcoming primetime special promises an intimate glimpse into her health journey, including a surprise performance that showcases her unwavering spirit.

Kotb's interview highlights the emotional toll that Dion's diagnosis has taken on her and her family. Despite the challenges, Dion remains optimistic about her recovery and her eventual return to the stage. Her unwavering support system, including her children and dedicated medical team, serves as a testament to her strength and determination. The special will provide a platform for Dion to share her experiences, raising awareness about a rare condition and inspiring others facing similar struggles.