Hoda Kotb Turns A New Chapter: Moving On From Today And Joel Schiffman

It’s a time of transition for Hoda Kotb, the beloved television host. At 60, she’s making big moves both personally and professionally. In a recent episode of Today, Hoda announced that she’ll be stepping away from the morning show after years of brightening our mornings. But that’s not all—she’s also moving forward from her 2022 split with Joel Schiffman, according to an insider speaking exclusively to Closer.

Life After Joel: Hoda's New Beginning

Hoda Kotb, a name synonymous with warmth and authenticity, is ready to embrace the next phase of her life. While her departure from Today marks the end of an era, it also opens doors for fresh opportunities. The insider tells Closer, “Hoda regrets the Joel breakup, but life is more complicated than simply having a demanding career.”

Hoda and Joel’s journey began in 2013, though they kept their relationship private for two years. Together, they welcomed daughters Haley Joy and Hope Catherine into the world. Despite their shared joys, Hoda has admitted that they were growing at different speeds. “Raising young children wasn’t his priority, and she understood that,” the insider explained. “She doesn’t blame him for his choices. It was tough at first, but she’s come to terms with it and is moving on.”

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The Early Days of Their Romance

Back in 2015, Hoda opened up about how she and Joel, 66, connected during a candid moment on Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen. She confessed to asking a mutual friend to check if Joel was single. Her friend reached out, and Joel took the initiative by emailing Hoda directly and inviting her on a date. It was a simple yet effective start to what would become a significant relationship.

After years of dating, the couple announced their engagement in November 2019 during an episode of Today. Fans were thrilled, but the relationship took an unexpected turn in January 2022 when Hoda revealed that they had ended their engagement. They decided to focus on co-parenting as friends, a decision that showed their commitment to their daughters above all else.

Revisiting the Breakup

In August, Hoda delved deeper into the reasons behind their split during an appearance on The Jamie Kern Lima Show. She expressed admiration for Joel, calling him “one of the best people I know” and acknowledging his greatness as a person. Yet, she admitted that sometimes even two wonderful individuals can’t make things work. “It’s about being in sync,” she explained. “One person grows in one direction, while the other grows in another. It’s a common challenge many couples face.”

With her new schedule, Hoda is optimistic about finding love again. A source close to her told Closer that she might finally have the time and space to focus on this aspect of her life. “She’s been brave about her situation, but deep down, everyone knows she feels lonely,” the source revealed. “She prioritizes her daughters, but finding someone to share her life with is also important to her.”

In early 2025, Hoda will host her final episode as a cohost on Today. This change will allow her to explore new opportunities and perhaps even meet that special someone. “This new chapter will give Hoda the chance to breathe, relax, and hopefully connect with someone who truly understands her,” the source added. “She believes that staying on Today indefinitely wouldn’t have allowed her to do this.”