Hoda Kotb, co-host of NBC’s “Today” show, announces she’ll be stepping down early next year.

Hoda Kotb, the beloved co-host of NBC’s “Today” show, revealed on Thursday that she will be stepping down from her role early next year. 

Since 2017, Kotb has shared the morning stage with Savannah Guthrie, following Matt Lauer's departure due to serious misconduct allegations. 

During her emotional announcement on “Today,” Kotb expressed, “At 60, I felt it was time to turn the page. I want to dedicate more of my time to my kids, who deserve a bigger piece of my life.” She has two young daughters whom she adopted and hopes to spend more time with.

At NBC, Kotb has been an essential part of the “Today” show's fabric, hosting both the morning segments and the 10 am “Hoda & Jenna” talk show. She described her decision to leave as the “hardest of her life.”

Savannah Guthrie shared her feelings about Kotb’s departure, saying, “We can’t imagine this place without you. It’s tough because we love you so much, but it takes a lot of courage to leave when you’re at the top of your game.”

Kotb’s exit marks a significant shift in the morning television landscape, a rarity in recent years as shows like “Today” and ABC’s “Good Morning America” have remained highly profitable and influential, even as the broadcasting industry faces challenges.

In a heartfelt letter to her colleagues, Kotb reassured them that she plans to stay connected with NBC. “Happily and gratefully, I will remain part of the NBC family. This has been the longest and most cherished relationship for me, and you will always be a part of my family,” she wrote.

As of now, NBC has not announced who will take over Kotb’s position, and it may take months before a successor is named.