Hoda Kotb has built a reputation as one of the most empathetic and engaging interviewers in television, and tomorrow, January 10, will mark her final day on Today after an incredible run. As co-anchor of the iconic morning show, Kotb’s natural curiosity, warmth, and emotional intelligence have made her a favorite among viewers, while her candid, thoughtful conversations with high-profile guests have become unforgettable television moments.
From stories of personal triumph and hardship to lighthearted exchanges, Hoda has consistently created powerful, authentic moments that resonate with audiences. In honor of her departure, this article takes a look at Hoda Kotb’s top 10 must-watch interviews, each one showcasing her unique ability to make her guests feel at ease and share their most intimate stories, cementing her place as one of the standout figures in broadcast journalism.
1. Taylor Swift
Hoda Kotb will never forget the first time she met Taylor Swift, and it’s a moment she often reflects on with fondness. The Today host opened up about meeting the 19-year-old singer just as she was beginning to explode into stardom, during a Dateline episode. “Way back in the day, when she was just having one of her first concerts, they sent me to do a Dateline piece,” Hoda recalled on Hoda & Jenna in June 2024. “I won’t forget it because I thought she was just a teenager.” What stood out most to Hoda was Swift’s maturity and poise. As they walked around the set, the young singer confidently directed her crew, saying, “I need a kick light here,” with a professionalism that immediately impressed Kotb. “I looked at this girl and thought to myself: polite and in charge. Both things,” Hoda remembered. This early encounter highlighted Taylor’s natural leadership and ambition, qualities that would go on to define her career. It’s a story Hoda cherishes as a reminder of the superstar Taylor Swift was destined to become.
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2. Oprah
In 2020, Hoda Kotb was overcome with emotion as she finally had the chance to meet and interview her idol, Oprah Winfrey. With tears in her eyes, Kotb expressed just how much the moment meant to her. “You know when people say ‘you mean so much to me,’ but they’ve never met you, and I know maybe it always does seem a little weird, but this is really one of those moments for me, so thank you,” Hoda told Oprah, her voice filled with gratitude and admiration.
At the time, Oprah was in the midst of her “2020 Vision: Your Life in Focus” tour, a campaign centered around diet, fitness, and mental health. She stopped by Today with Hoda & Jenna to discuss the tour with the two hosts.
During their conversation, Oprah spoke passionately about the goals of the tour, saying, “We come together with this one goal to be well, to be better for ourselves and our families, and I think there is unity in this common goal to want to do better in your life.” It was a powerful moment for Hoda, who had long admired Oprah and was now sitting across from her, sharing in a conversation about wellness and personal growth.
3. Simone Biles
After her remarkable performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she brought home three gold medals, Hoda Kotb sat down with Simone Biles, the most decorated gymnast in history, for an inspiring interview. Having interviewed Biles multiple times, Kotb expressed her admiration for the 27-year-old’s incredible sportsmanship during the games.
One particular moment that stood out to Kotb was when Biles and her teammate Jordan Chiles showed respect to Brazilian gymnast Rebeca Andrade by bowing as she received her gold medal for the floor routine. Reflecting on the act, Biles shared, “We don’t care whether we win or lose; we’re always gonna keep a good face and support our competitors because they’ve worked just as hard as we have for that moment.” It was a powerful demonstration of humility and respect that further cemented Biles as a role model, not just for her athletic achievements, but for her character as well.
Today has made a compilation of all of Hoda and Simone’s interviews over the years. Watch below!
4. Céline Dion
Before her stunning performance at the 2024 Summer Olympic Games’ opening ceremony, Céline Dion opened up to Hoda Kotb in an exclusive interview, revealing her battle with the rare and debilitating neurological disorder, Stiff-Person Syndrome. The condition, which affects her muscles and mobility, has made it increasingly difficult for Dion to maintain the level of physical control required for her performances. Despite these challenges, the legendary singer remained resolute in her commitment to continue her musical career. “I’m going to come onstage because I’m ready. And my vocal cords will not scare me because I’m going to be ready, and I’m going to hit those notes,” Dion shared with Hoda, displaying the same fierce determination that has fueled her decades-long career.
This interview not only gave fans a rare glimpse into Dion’s personal struggle, but also highlighted the resilience and strength that continues to define her as an artist. Despite the uncertainty that her condition brings, Dion’s determination to perform and give her all to her fans remains unwavering.
5. Prince Harry
As a prominent member of the British royal family, Prince Harry was once closely associated with the United Kingdom. However, since stepping down from his senior royal duties alongside his wife, Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, the Duke of Sussex now considers the United States his home. The couple and their two children, Archie, 2, and Lilibet, 10 months, have settled in Santa Barbara, California, where they have embraced a new chapter of their lives far from the royal spotlight.
In an exclusive interview with Hoda Kotb on Today, Harry, 37, opened up about their decision to make the West Coast their family’s base. Reflecting on the transition from life in the U.K. to raising their children in California, he shared, “Home for me, now, for the time being, is in the States. And it really feels that way, as well. We’ve been welcomed with open arms and have got such a great community up in Santa Barbara.” The warmth and support they’ve received in their new home has made the adjustment feel natural, despite the fact that, as a royal, Harry’s identity had been so tied to Britain for most of his life.
6. Michelle Obama
Former First Lady Michelle Obama sat down with Hoda and Jenna in Studio 6A to discuss her latest book, The Light We Carry. In this inspiring conversation, Michelle opened up about the book’s message, which is designed to help readers rediscover their inner strength and ignite the spark within themselves. Reflecting on the valuable life lessons she learned from her parents, Michelle shared how those teachings helped shape her journey toward self-confidence. She also offered practical advice on how to stay resilient and maintain a positive outlook, even when the world around us feels challenging and overwhelming.
7. Sandra Bullock
Hoda Kotb and Sandra Bullock share a special bond that goes beyond friendship, rooted in mutual admiration and support. When Hoda began considering adoption later in life, it was Sandra, a mother who had adopted her own children as an older parent, whom she turned to for guidance. Sandra’s experience as a mother helped ease Hoda’s fears and provided invaluable advice during a pivotal moment in Hoda’s life.
The two stars have maintained a close relationship over the years, with Sandra even virtually attending Hoda’s 60th birthday celebration, a gesture of her continued friendship. Their connection dates back to a heartfelt 2018 interview, when Sandra opened up to Hoda about motherhood, personal growth, and the joys of adopting her children. The genuine warmth and understanding between them were evident, and it’s clear that their friendship continues to be a source of strength for both women.
8. Blake Shelton
In June 2017, New York Times best-selling author Hoda Kotb visited Nashville for the CMT Awards, where she had the chance to catch up with country superstar Blake Shelton. During their conversation, Kotb got the inside scoop on Shelton’s relationship with Gwen Stefani, who he had been dating for two years at the time. “We’re just content and happy, and it’s just an incredible feeling,” Blake gushed about his romance with Gwen.
Fast forward to Hoda’s final week on Today, when Blake Shelton made a surprise virtual appearance to share a hilarious and unexpected story. He recalled a time years ago when they ran into each other at a party in Nashville. Blake, who had long been aware of Hoda’s admiration for him, thought it was going to be a special moment. However, in a turn of events, Hoda literally ran away from him. “You talked about Hoda saying I was her first love or whatever. I ran into her in Nashville one time… I thought it was going to be our moment. And she completely ran away from me,” Blake said, causing Hoda and co-host Jenna Bush Hager to erupt in surprise. Hoda had no memory of the moment, but Blake was insistent. “Remember at the number one party? I was like, ‘Hoda, you’re here.’ You’re like, ‘I gotta go!’ And you ran!”
Despite the initial awkwardness, Hoda laughed it off, admitting, “I’ve changed. I’m totally not that girl anymore.” It was a full-circle moment, as the woman who once ran away from one of her idols now has a close friendship with Blake Shelton—proof that sometimes meeting your heroes can lead to some pretty unforgettable moments.
9. Viola Davis
In 2022, Hoda Kotb welcomed Viola Davis for an intimate conversation on Hoda’s Making Space podcast, as the actress promoted her powerful film The Woman King. During their heartfelt discussion, Davis opened up about her journey of self-discovery, overcoming deep personal trauma, and the importance of taking control of one’s own future. With vulnerability and strength, Viola shared how she has navigated challenges throughout her life, likening the process to a relay race—moving forward one step at a time, with resilience and determination.
The conversation delved into how she found her voice and used it not only for her own healing but to inspire others. Hoda’s warm, thoughtful approach allowed Davis to reflect on the lessons she’s learned and how they continue to shape her career and personal life, offering listeners a powerful reminder of the strength that comes from embracing both the light and the dark parts of our stories.
10. Cher
Cher sat down with Hoda Kotb for a candid and captivating conversation about her extraordinary career, her complex relationship with Sonny Bono, and the invaluable advice she received from the iconic Lucille Ball. As the music legend promoted her new book Cher: The Memoir, Part One, she opened up about the highs and lows of her remarkable life. Cher reflected on the challenges she faced during her tumultuous marriage to Sonny, and how their professional and personal dynamics shaped both their careers.
She also shared the impact of meeting Lucille Ball, whose wisdom and mentorship had a profound effect on Cher’s own journey in the entertainment industry. With her trademark wit and unapologetic honesty, Cher gave Hoda and viewers an inside look into her life and legacy, offering a glimpse into the moments and people that helped shape the “Goddess of Pop” into the icon she is today.
