“I have a message for you,” she said before singing “The Best Is Yet to Come.” Kathie Lee and Hoda co-hosted TODAY with Kathie Lee & Hoda from 2008 until Kathie Lee departed in 2019. Kathie Lee shared how she and Hoda formed a strong bond before teaming up for the fourth hour of the show.
“I fell in love with Hoda over lunch,” Kathie Lee recalled their initial meeting where they spent so much time at a restaurant that they were eventually asked to leave. Despite initially committing to the show for only a year, Kathie Lee found herself deeply attached to Hoda. She expressed, “My problem is I fall in love, and I fell in love with Hoda. I didn’t want to part ways with her. Every moment spent with Hoda felt special, reminiscent of the connection I shared with Regis (Philbin) – two individuals with stark differences. I eagerly anticipated being with them daily.”
She further described Hoda as “sunshine in a bottle,” acknowledging her radiant presence. Reflecting on their collaboration, Kathie Lee commended Hoda’s fearlessness and the evolution of her performance style. “You proved to me that you’re a fearless person. Initially known as a renowned journalist, Hoda hesitated to trust her performing instincts, which wasn’t acceptable to me,” Kathie Lee stated.
Their farewell segment included a touching toast where Kathie Lee conveyed her heartfelt sentiments through prayers. “I want to send her off with what means the most to me, a prayer from the depths of my heart,” she remarked before reciting the prayers. “May you walk into the most joyful, prosperous, purposeful time in your life,” Kathie Lee concluded emotionally.
Despite Kathie Lee’s departure, her bond with Hoda remains strong. Recently, the duo reunited at a New York Giants-New Orleans Saints game, showcasing their enduring friendship. When Hoda announced her departure from TODAY in September, Kathie Lee couldn’t help but feel moved by the news. “Bittersweet news as my dear friend @hodakotb steps away from the Today Show,” Kathie Lee shared in a heartfelt post. “Her warmth, laughter, and incredible spirit have brightened our mornings and touched countless hearts. Here’s to new adventures!”
During Kathie Lee’s departure announcement in 2018, Hoda praised their partnership, highlighting the invaluable experience of working alongside her. “Sitting next to you was like a master class in this broadcasting business because nobody does it like you do,” Hoda expressed. “Your fearlessness is contagious.”
Prior to Kathie Lee’s exit from TODAY, both hosts opened up about the profound impact of their relationship. Hoda reflected on the intensity of their connection, expressing, “Kathie Lee totally jumped into my life in a way that I had never experienced before. I was transfixed by her when we met.” Kathie Lee recip.
