“Today” co-anchor Hoda Kotb has been absent from the morning show for more than a week, sparking a wave of confusion and concern among viewers.
The veteran broadcast journalist last appeared live on the NBC news program on Feb. 17, according to News week. She also took part in the President’s Day episode of “Today” on February 20, which was taped on February 17.
Until now, Kotb’s extended absence has remained unexplained, as some of her NBC News colleagues — including Craig Melvin, Tom Llamas, Willie Geist, and Sheinelle Jones — continue to replace her alongside “Today” co-anchor Savannah Guthrie and “Today With Hoda & Jenna” co-host Jenna Bush Hager.
In addition, no new episodes of Kotb’s “Today” podcast “Making Space” – which usually appear on Mondays – were released this week. The latest episode of “Making Space,” starring actor Rosie Perez, debuted Feb. 20.
Representatives for “Vandaag” did not immediately respond to The Times’ request for comment on Tuesday.
Amid her mysterious ‘Today’ hiatus, Kotb has continued to post motivational quotes that fans have been trying to decipher on Instagram. Since Wednesday, the beloved news anchor has been sharing daily proverbs such as, “One day you’ll see how brave you’ve been,” “Sometimes miracles are just good people with good hearts,” and “Choose hope.”
Among Kotb’s recent Instagram posts, hundreds of loyal fans have expressed concern and support for the longtime NBC News correspondent, mother and vocal breast cancer survivor.
“Find it hard to watch when you’re not there,” one person wrote.
“Seriously… what’s wrong with you?” another noted. “I know you have a right to privacy, but your staunchest fans have noticed your absence and these posts… they are concerned about you.”
“Today’s show just isn’t the same without you!” remarked another. “Hope you’re okay, but boy, if they let you go… people will drop like flies watching Today. We love Hoda!”
About a year ago, Kotb briefly disappeared from “Today” after testing positive for COVID-19. She promptly informed her social media followers via Twitter of her condition at the time.
“Thx for good wishes!” Kotb tweeted from isolation. “I’m feeling great.. can’t wait to see you all when I’m free! Xo.”
