Donna Farizan Bids Emotional Farewell to Today After 12 Years: “It’s Time to Create My Own Map”

A Heartfelt Goodbye

The Today show’s beloved family is saying goodbye to one of its most treasured members. On September 8, 2025, Donna Farizan announced her departure from the show after 12 years of heartfelt reporting, mentorship, and camaraderie with her Today family. In a deeply emotional farewell, Farizan reflected on her journey, from her early days as an intern to becoming a fixture of the fourth hour of Today with Jenna & Friends.

In a prerecorded video package, Farizan opened up about her decision, sharing her feelings of gratitude and excitement for the future. “The time has come to start my next chapter,” she said, with a mixture of pride and anticipation. “The unknown can be scary, but it’s also exhilarating, so let’s embrace it.”

Her farewell wasn’t just about saying goodbye; it was a celebration of the path she’d walked, the friendships she’d built, and the lessons she’d learned along the way. As one of the anchors who helped shape the Today show’s engaging style, Farizan has touched the hearts of viewers with her unique perspective, warmth, and insight.

From Intern to Correspondent

Farizan’s journey at Today began long before she became a household name. Starting as an intern, she worked her way up through the ranks, eventually becoming a correspondent for the show’s fourth hour. Her time on the show allowed her to explore new mediums, break fresh ground, and share stories that resonated deeply with audiences.

One of the moments Farizan highlighted in her farewell was the launch of her series, Own Your Power, which challenged her to speak her truth and help others do the same. She shared that this series became a pivotal moment in her career, as it gave her the opportunity to connect with people on a deeper level and inspire them to embrace their own potential.

A Goodbye to Mentors and Friends

In her emotional message, Donna Farizan paid tribute to the Today team, especially the women who mentored her throughout her journey. “I’m so grateful to have gone to the school of Kathie Lee Gifford, the school of Hoda Kotb, and the school of Jenna Bush Hager,” Farizan said, referring to the legendary women who helped shape her career and provided her with wisdom and guidance.

Farizan’s bond with her co-hosts, past and present, was evident in the final moments of her send-off. Jenna Bush Hager and Savannah Guthrie joined her on air, offering heartfelt words of gratitude and admiration. Jenna, with emotion in her voice, assured Donna, “You will always be part of our family. As you said, this is your home, you are welcome back whenever. But we cannot wait to see what the future has in store for you. We know it’s gonna be beautiful.”

The warmth of the Today family was palpable as the team came together to celebrate Donna’s contributions, her leadership, and her positive impact on the show and its viewers. The final moments of the show’s September 8 episode were filled with love, laughter, and a bit of nostalgia as Donna was gifted with a framed photo collage, showcasing the lives she’d touched over the years.

A New Beginning

Donna’s departure marks the end of an era at Today. For more than a decade, viewers tuned in not only for the latest news but for the genuine warmth and connection that Farizan brought to the screen. Her departure signals the beginning of an exciting new chapter in her career, one that she is ready to embrace with open arms.

In her farewell letter, Donna Farizan wrote about the power of taking risks and embracing the unknown. “Discomfort is usually a catalyst for growth,” she said, encouraging viewers to take their own leaps of faith and pursue what they love. Her message resonated with many, inspiring them to live more boldly and to bet on themselves. “Success is a team sport,” she wrote, reflecting on the support she received from her Today family. “And this is the team I’ve built.”

What’s Next for Donna?

While Farizan has made her mark at Today, she’s far from done. As she steps away from the show, Donna’s fans are eager to see what’s next for the talented correspondent. With a passion for storytelling and a deep commitment to uplifting others, it’s clear that this is just the beginning of a new, exciting journey for Farizan.

Whether she’s continuing her work with Own Your Power, launching new projects, or creating meaningful content for audiences, Donna’s future is bright—and her fans can’t wait to follow along.

A Legacy of Inspiration

Donna Farizan’s legacy at Today is one of empowerment, connection, and authenticity. Her willingness to share her journey with the world has made her a role model for many, and her departure is bittersweet for both viewers and colleagues alike.

But as she embarks on the next phase of her career, one thing is certain: Donna Farizan will continue to inspire others with her voice, her stories, and her unwavering belief in the power of personal growth. Whether on the screen or in new ventures, Donna’s light will continue to shine brightly.