Who Is Hoda Kotb's Ex-Husband? A Closer Look At Burzis Kanga

Let’s talk about Hoda Kotb, the beloved host of "Today." She’s shared so much of her life with us, from her career highs to her personal challenges. Hoda married Burzis Kanga back in 2005, but life took a dramatic turn just two years later when she filed for divorce amid her battle with breast cancer. Keep reading to learn more about Hoda’s ex-husband and her incredible journey since then.

Hoda Kotb’s Ex-Husband: The Story of Burzis Kanga

Hoda has opened up about her marriage to Burzis Kanga in interviews over the years. In a June 2006 chat with New Orleans Living, she revealed some fascinating details about her former spouse. Burzis was a true New Orleans native, having lived in the city for 26 years before meeting Hoda at a fundraiser for the American Heart Association. They clicked instantly, and their relationship blossomed over the years. They dated on and off, navigating the ups and downs of life together.

When Hoda moved to New York City to work for NBC, things got serious between the two. Burzis, who was the head coach for both the men’s and women’s tennis teams at the University of New Orleans, had his life turned upside down by Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The storm destroyed his home, prompting him to relocate to New York to be with Hoda. The couple tied the knot in December 2005 in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, surrounded by loved ones. It seemed like a fairytale romance, but life had other plans.

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However, life threw Hoda a curveball in 2007 when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Amid this challenging time, she filed for divorce from Burzis in February of that year. The couple officially parted ways in 2008, but Hoda has always spoken fondly of her time with him, acknowledging the impact he had on her life.

Is Hoda Kotb Single Now?

Fast forward to 2013, when Hoda met Joel Schiffman at a Wall Street event. Their relationship blossomed quietly for two years before they went public. During their romance, Hoda and Joel adopted two beautiful daughters, Haley and Hope. Hoda has often reflected on how her battle with cancer shaped her outlook on life and love.

“Cancer shaped me, but it did not define me. It’s part of me, but not all of me,” Hoda shared during a heartfelt speech at a Breast Cancer Research Foundation event in October 2017. “In my early 40s, I was sick, getting divorced, and in a job that didn’t suit me. Now, at 53, I have a guy I love, two amazing kids who are the light of my life, and a job that I truly enjoy. Life is good,” she added.

Hoda announced her engagement to Joel in November 2019, but the couple postponed their wedding multiple times due to the pandemic. By January 2022, they decided to part ways, announcing their decision on "Today." Hoda explained, “Joel and I had many meaningful conversations over the holidays and decided we’re better as friends and parents than as an engaged couple. We’re starting this new year on a fresh path as loving parents to our adorable children and as friends.”

Despite the split, Hoda remains hopeful about finding lasting love. “I haven’t really thought about who I’d see myself with, but I do feel something deep inside,” she said during a May 2022 event at The Paley Center for Media in New York City. “Even my sister asked me if I’m afraid to be alone, and I told her, ‘I’m not going to be alone.’ My heart is open, and I truly believe that love will find me again.”