Hoda Kotb returns to ‘Today’ show, reveals daughter Hope’s hospitalization
Hoda Kotb returned to the “Today” show Monday and revealed the mysterious “family health matter” that led to her extended absence.
“My youngest [daughter], Hope, was in the ICU for a few days and in the hospital for more than a week,” the news anchor explained to co-host Savannah Guthrie at the top of the show.
“I’m so grateful she’s home,” the 58-year-old continued. “We are watching her closely. I am just so happy.”
Kotb went on to express gratitude for those who “helped” during the 3-year-old’s health scare, including Guthrie.
“I’m grateful for the doctors and the nurses,” she gushed, tearing up. “I’m grateful to my family and to friends like you who were there every single day.”
Craig Melvin first told concerned viewers on March 1 that Kotb was dealing with a “family health matter” after she had been off the air for nearly two weeks without explanation.
Kotb also took a break from posting her usual family photos and news stories on Instagram, instead sharing only inspirational quotes.
The quotes were about choosing “hope” and staying “strong” and “brave” amid “dark clouds.”
Kotb shares daughters Hope and Haley, 5, with her ex-fiancé, Joel Schiffman.
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