Fans are thankful for Hoda Kotb this holiday season.
The former “Today” host delighted viewers on Thursday when he joined old colleagues Savannah Guthrie and Al Roker for NBC’s live coverage of this year’s Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
This was Kotub’s first time back in front of the cameras since she left the popular morning show in January to spend more time with her daughters.
“I’m glad Hoda Kotb is back in the parade after she leaves today. We need her,” one person wrote to X during the festivities in New York City on Thanksgiving morning.
“I’m not the one jumping up and down on Hoda Kotb hosting the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade,” another celebrated. “I love Hoda and really missed watching her on TV.”
“Hoda Kotb on screen again…all is well,” a third person tweeted.
“So happy to see Hoda Kotb back in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade with Savannah Guthrie!” gushed a quarter. “I’m so glad NBC brought her on for this special occasion!”
Kotb, 61, teased her special appearance at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade during a chat with NPR on Wednesday.
“It feels like home,” she told the outlet about her return to NBC. “Every year, Macy’s ups their game.”
“There’s a lot of surprise and joy,” the former “Dateline” correspondent added. “What I really like about[parades]is that there’s a reassurance that things aren’t necessarily going to change dramatically.”
She also likened Thanksgiving morning to “the feel of a warm blanket” and “all the memories that come with it.”
Kotubu announced that he would be leaving “Today” in September 2024, which upset his fans. She had been with the show for 17 years and NBC for 26 years before leaving in January.
“As I write this, my mind is all over the map,” she said at the time. “I know I’m making the right decision, but it’s a tough one, and you’re the reason why.”
“They say sometimes two things can be right at the same time, and I feel that very deeply right now,” she added. “I love you, and it’s time to leave the show.”
Kotub, whose daughter Hope, 6, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 2023, paid special tribute to each of her beloved co-hosts.
“Savannah: my rock,” she continued. “Jenna: It was do-or-die. Al: My oldest friend on 30 Rock. Craig, Carson, Sheinelle, Dylan: My family. Libby, Maz, Talia: My fearless leaders. I will miss each and every one of you joining me today so much.”
“I’ll be there too. Why not?” Kotb concluded. “My family is my family and you will always be a part of me.”
