Exploring the Reason Behind Hoda Kotb's Absence on 'Today' During Hoda & Jenna's 5th Anniversary Week

Hoda Kotb recently took a break from her hosting duties on Today, just as she was celebrating five years of cohosting with Jenna Bush Hager.

On Wednesday, April 10, Kotb, who is 59 years old, was missing from the first two hours of Today. It was right before the latest episode of Today With Hoda & Jenna. In her absence, Savannah Guthrie playfully mentioned that Kotb was "on assignment," while Sheinelle Jones stepped in to cohost the third hour of Today.

Guthrie, 52, later clarified that Kotb was not present because she was “on her way to New Orleans” for Hoda & Jenna’s special fifth anniversary shows on Thursday, April 11, and Friday, April 12.

Kotb and Bush Hager, 42, announced last month that they were taking their show to Louisiana to celebrate their cohosting milestone. “There’s only one place we could celebrate,” Bush Hager exclaimed during a March episode, to which Kotb added, “It’s the place where we have the most fun, where we are wild. We are wild when we go there.”

The duo will start the city's 2024 French Quarter Fest music festival with two lucky fans who won a special trip to join Kotb and Bush Hager for the festivities.

Earlier this week, the hosting pair marked five years since their first show together. "How does it feel for you, five years?" Kotb asked Bush Hager on Monday, April 8.

Bush Hager expressed her admiration for her colleague, highlighting how their presence brings joy and positivity. She mentioned how much she appreciates the constant smile and support, recognizing that it may not always be easy for them. Despite any challenges, she values their presence beside her.

Why Hoda Kotb Is Absent From Today During Hoda and Jenna 5th Anniversary Week

Hoda Kotb and Jenna Bush Hager posed at the Empire State Building on April 8, 2024. Nathan Congleton/NBC

In April 2019, Bush Hager became Kotb's co-host on the fourth hour of Today after Kathie Lee Gifford's departure. Kotb mentioned that they began as colleagues and friends, but she is delighted by the growth of their relationship in the past few years.

"We have traveled down these roads together because there is a deep understanding of each other's soul and purpose," she shared. "Many times, friendships do not grow beyond reminiscing about the past. But ours is different."

She continued to express how Bush Hager has guided her along a journey, introducing her to individuals in her life who have played a healing role. "It's all meant to be," she emphasized. "Every connection and experience is part of a greater plan."

Monday's episode of Hoda & Jenna was full of surprises for the pair. They were treated to an original song by Meghan Trainor and even had a day declared in their honor in New York City. Guest Chloe Fineman assured them that they truly have an official holiday, despite their doubts about Mayor Eric Adams' proclamation.

Before watching the 2024 solar eclipse with their fellow Today hosts, Kotb and Bush Hager ended their special day by lighting up the Empire State Building in the show's signature pink and purple colors.

Editor's P/S:

Hoda Kotb's absence from the Today show was a reminder of the special bond she shares with her co-host, Jenna Bush Hager. Their five-year anniversary celebration is a testament to their friendship and mutual support. Kotb's absence was not a sign of any underlying issues, but rather a chance for her to prepare for their upcoming special fifth anniversary shows in New Orleans.

The article highlights the close connection between Kotb and Bush Hager, who have grown from colleagues to close friends. Their partnership has brought joy and positivity to viewers, and their journey together has been filled with unexpected connections and experiences. The duo's special day was filled with surprises and celebrations, including an original song by Meghan Trainor and a day declared in their honor in New York City. Their celebration culminated in lighting up the Empire State Building in the show's signature colors, a fitting tribute to their friendship and the special bond they have formed over the past five years.