Is Hoda Kotb Returning to the TODAY Show?

Hoda Kotb Returns to the TODAY Show for a Special One-Day Appearance

 Background: Stepping Away to Find Balance

After 17 years as a beloved anchor on the TODAY Show (2007–2025), Hoda Kotb officially stepped down from her daily co-hosting duties on January 10, 2025. The decision was deeply personal: she wanted to spend more time with her two daughters — Haley  and Hope  — and her aging mother.

Marking her 60th birthday, Hoda described the move as a “re-centering moment” to focus on what matters most. Though she stepped away from the morning spotlight, Hoda emphasized that she would still remain a part of NBC, taking on selective projects related to wellness, podcasting, and family-centered content.

 The Return: “One Day Only” – May 28, 2025

On May 27, 2025, NBC Insider revealed that Hoda Kotb would return to the TODAY Show for one day only — Wednesday, May 28, airing at 10 a.m. ET. The appearance came just four months after her departure and was tied to the launch of a brand-new wellness project, which Hoda had been quietly developing behind the scenes.

Former co-host Jenna Bush Hager announced the news enthusiastically on air: “For one day only! Hoda Kotb is back!”

 The Message: Mental Health, Balance, and Joy

During the segment, Hoda introduced her latest passion project — a comprehensive wellness brand called “Joy 101.” It includes a mobile app, podcast episodes, in-person retreats, and digital content centered around mindfulness and emotional wellbeing.

Hoda opened up about her personal journey through stress, health issues, and life transitions, saying:

“I’ve tried everything to find peace, to feel healthy, to stay joyful — and I want to share those tools with the world.”

“Joy 101” is the result of that journey — a platform to help people find joy, connect deeply with themselves, and prioritize mental and emotional wellness.

Key takeaways from the episode:

Holistic living: Small habits can lead to big change.

Evolving role at NBC: While she won’t appear daily, Hoda will still contribute to TODAY through periodic wellness segments, special events, and her podcast Making Space.

Family first: Her current life rhythm revolves around her daughters’ school schedules, playtime, and creating quality moments as a mother.

 A Meaningful One-Day Comeback

Though brief, Hoda’s return made a lasting impact. It was not just a guest appearance — it was a symbolic reintroduction of a renewed, purpose-driven Hoda. It underscored:

A deliberate shift from daily media to meaningful, mission-driven content.

A continued collaboration with NBC in a new capacity.

An inspiring example of reinventing oneself at 60 — or any age — and embracing change with clarity and joy.

As she described it herself, the decision to “replant” herself — just like repotting a flower — was necessary for growth.

 The Wellness Brand: A Vision for the Future

The Joy 101 ecosystem is just beginning. According to outlets like E! Online and NBC News, the initiative includes:

Mobile app: Guided practices, journaling prompts, daily affirmations.

Wellness retreats: In-person events focused on reflection, healing, and growth.

Podcasts & courses: Including her hit series Making Space, featuring guests like Dwyane Wade and Big Sean.

In her own words:

“These aren’t just retreats for fun — they’re experiences that change you.”

On The Kelly Clarkson Show, Hoda previously shared that wellness has helped her find clarity, energy, and peace — especially as a working mom and public figure.

What’s Next with TODAY & NBC?

Although Hoda will no longer be a daily fixture on the TODAY Show, she remains closely connected to the network. According to official NBC statements and media reports:

She will appear on TODAY roughly every 4 to 6 weeks, offering wellness updates and special guest interviews.

She will be part of NBC’s coverage of the 2026 and 2028 Olympics.

Her podcast Making Space continues into its seventh season in collaboration with NBC News.

Hoda also cleared up any rumors about switching shows. Contrary to some speculation, she is not moving to The Kelly Clarkson Show, and confirmed that if she ever returned to daily hosting, it would only be at TODAY.

Conclusion

✅ Yes, Hoda Kotb returned to the TODAY Show — but for one day only, on May 28, 2025. Her appearance marked the debut of her new project, Joy 101, focused on mental wellness and joyful living.

🎯 Rather than a permanent return to morning TV, this was a symbolic reentry, introducing a new chapter of her life rooted in meaning, family, and mindfulness.

📌 While fans won’t see her every morning, Hoda remains part of the TODAY and NBC family — contributing to select episodes, Olympics coverage, and personal wellness initiatives.

💬 What can viewers expect next? A different Hoda — more grounded, more intentional, and more focused on spreading joy in everyday life.

You can rewatch the special TODAY episode from May 28 on NBC.com or the Peacock streaming platform.