Hoda Kotb Absent From ‘Today’ Show Because Of ‘Family Health Matter’

Topline

Co-anchor Hoda Kotb has not appeared on the Today show for over a week because she is dealing with a “family health matter,” her co-hosts said on Wednesday, after viewers had raised concerns about the co-anchor’s extended absence.

Key Facts

Kotb is “OK,” and her colleagues look forward to seeing her back on-air “very very soon,” Craig Melvin said.

Kotb has not shared details about the situation on social media.

Co-anchor Savannah Guthrie also went missing from Wednesday’s broadcast after she tested positive for Covid-19 on Tuesday while in the studio.

Key Background

Viewers have been concerned for Kotb, as she has not appeared on a live Today broadcast since February 17. She appeared in a pre-taped President’s Day episode that aired on February 20. Her weekly podcast, Making Space, did not release a new episode on Monday. Some fans have been reading into Kotb’s Instagram posts of inspirational quotes, including one that reads “choose hope,” (Hope is the name of one of Kotb’s daughters).

Tangent

This is the second recent unexpected talent surprise the NBC morning show has had to deal with. In November, veteran Today personality Al Roker, 68, left the show until January while suffering from blood clots and other major health issues.

Further Reading

Where’s Hoda? Kotb’s Extended Absence From ‘Today’ Show Concerns Fans (Forbes)