Why Hoda Kotb Broke Down in Tears During 'Today' Show
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Hoda Kotb couldn't contain her tears on a recent episode of the Today show.
The longtime anchor was celebrated by her colleagues in honor of the release of her latest book, Hope Is a Rainbow, and the sweet gesture caused her to become overwhelmed with emotion.
During the Tuesday, March 5 episode of the broadcast, her costars surprised her with a special musical performance delivered by the Brooklyn Youth Chorus, who delivered a beautiful rendition of "Over the Rainbow" from the iconic 1939-released film, The Wizard Of Oz.
"When we think about you, we think about music and how much you love it and we thought what better way to celebrate this moment and your book than with a very special performance from the Grammy-winning Brooklyn Youth Chorus," Carson Daly said while introducing the musical guests.
The performance moved Hoda, who was visibly touched, to tears. "I can't believe how good you are. I can't compose myself, it was so beautiful. No wonder you all won a Grammy!" she exclaimed.
The mom of two's latest publication is inspired by her youngest daughter, Hope, 4, whom the media veteran adopted in 2019. The book is "a lyrical celebration of hope in children and teaching the youngest readers how to reach for their dreams," according to its synopsis.
"When I was thinking about having a second child, I dreamt about her and I prayed for her, I hoped for her, I could feel her. She was almost palpable before she was there," the 59-year-old said of her decision to become a mom of two girls. "The name Hope was a lay up. Prayers and wishes and hopes are things that are meant to be. I was like, 'That's her name' and she's lived up to that name," she added.
"Hope delights in rainbows and whenever I say, 'What do you want to be when you grow up?' 'A rainbow'," she continued.
In addition to Hope, Kotb shares daughter Haley, 7, with ex-fiancé, Joel Schiffman.
