Donna Farizan, a “Today” contributor, announced her departure from the NBC morning show during Monday’s “Today With Jenna and Friends.”

“A year ago, I launched a series called ‘Own Your Power,’ where I challenged myself to speak my truth,” Farizan told co-hosts Jenna Bush Hager and Savannah Guthrie. “And now, after 12 years with ‘Today,’ I’m challenging myself to spread my wings beyond the show to see what new and exciting opportunities await me professionally.”

Farizan, 34, then read a letter she wrote to herself reflecting on the experiences and lessons she gained during her time on the show.

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“The world of TV and content can sometimes feel overwhelming because there is no road map,” she said as highlights from the last 12 years played. “But I am so grateful to have gone to the school of Kathie Lee Gifford, the school of Hoda Kotb and the school of Jenna Bush Hager, because now it’s time for me, Donna Farizan, to create my own map.”

Farizan, who joined “Today” as an intern when she was 20, became a full-time contributor after graduating from George Washington University in Washington, D.C.

Throughout her “Today” career, she hosted game segments and, through her segment “Own Your Power,” told stories of people realizing their capabilities. Farizan often shared personal experiences on the show or through essays written for Today.com, where she wrote about freezing her eggs.

The show’s staff joined Farizan, Hager and Guthrie onstage to bid their contributor farewell.

Farizan thanked Hager for teaching her that being herself is enough and told Guthrie that she was one of the reporters she studied for her senior thesis in college.

Before signing off, Farizan thanked the viewers for growing up with her and for being a constant of the show.

GOODBYE, TODAY! Beloved Host Donna Farizan CONFIRMS She’s Leaving After 12 Years—Her Surprising Reason Leaves Fans Emotional as She Declares: “It’s Time to Spread My Wings and Fly.”

Introduction

In a moment that left audiences misty-eyed and NBC insiders stunned, Donna Farizan, affectionately known as “Donna On The Plaza” to millions of Today viewers, has announced her departure from the show after 12 unforgettable years.

The longtime host and fan-favorite, known for her charisma, warmth, and unmatched energy, confirmed the news live on air with a voice trembling with emotion.

Her words cut straight to the heart:

“It’s time to spread my wings and fly.”

The Emotional Goodbye

Donna’s announcement came during what viewers believed would be a routine morning segment. Instead, she paused, steadied herself, and delivered the kind of heartfelt message only she could.

“This place has been my home,” she told the audience. “I grew up here, I laughed here, I learned here. But after 12 years, I feel in my heart that it’s time for something new. Not because I don’t love this show, but because I love myself enough to know when it’s time to grow.”

Co-hosts, visibly moved, surrounded her in support. Hoda Kotb reached for her hand, while Al Roker offered a trademark smile through glassy eyes.

A Legacy Built on Joy

Farizan’s journey on Today is one of connection. She was not just a personality behind the camera — she was a force of light, a reporter who engaged with audiences directly, often in unscripted, heartfelt ways.

From the plaza to celebrity interviews, she cultivated a rare authenticity that endeared her to millions.

“Donna is the kind of person who makes strangers feel like family,” a producer shared. “She’s the heartbeat of this show.”

Why Now?

The reason for her departure may surprise fans. Unlike many high-profile exits fueled by controversy or corporate shakeups, Farizan’s decision stems from personal growth.

She explained: “I’ve always encouraged viewers to chase their dreams, no matter the fear. And I realized… it’s my turn. I want to explore new creative projects, maybe even outside of television. I want to travel, to write, to learn. I want to give myself the chance to fly.”

This declaration transformed the goodbye from a moment of sadness into one of empowerment.

Fans React: “We’re Heartbroken, But We Understand”

As the news broke, social media flooded with emotional reactions:

“Donna made mornings brighter. NBC won’t be the same without her.”
“She’s the soul of the Today Show. I’m devastated but proud of her bravery.”
“This is the end of an era. Thank you for 12 years of love, laughter, and honesty.”

The hashtag #GoodbyeDonna began trending within hours, with tributes pouring in from longtime viewers, celebrities, and colleagues.

Behind-the-Scenes Support

Insiders say NBC executives were informed of Farizan’s decision weeks prior and tried to persuade her to stay. However, the host was clear: this was a deeply personal choice, not a professional grievance.

“She was firm but graceful,” one insider revealed. “Donna knows her worth, and she knows this is her moment.”

Colleagues, while saddened, are reportedly rallying behind her with unwavering support.

What’s Next for Donna Farizan?

Speculation is already swirling about what Farizan will do next. Some predict she may launch a podcast or write a memoir, while others suggest she could be eyeing a venture into philanthropy or creative production.

She hinted at possibilities, saying: “You’ll see me again. I’m not disappearing. I just need the freedom to choose what comes next.”

This leaves fans eagerly anticipating her next move.

A Turning Point for Today

Farizan’s departure raises inevitable questions about the future of the Today Show. For over a decade, she served as both a familiar face and a connective tissue between the show and its audience.

Her exit could mark the beginning of a new era — one where NBC is tasked with filling not just a role, but a presence.

Conclusion

Donna Farizan’s goodbye is more than the end of a chapter — it’s the beginning of a legacy. Her decision to leave after 12 years is rooted not in scandal or division, but in love: love for her craft, her audience, and herself.

And as she declared, it is finally time to spread her wings and fly.

For millions of fans, that flight is bittersweet. But it also proves that the same woman who inspired audiences every morning is now inspiring them in an entirely new way.

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