The beloved anchor of NBC’s Today show, Hoda Kotb, has often shared her personal life with viewers. Her relationship with Joel Schiffman, a financier, has drawn public scrutiny over the years. Viewers followed their journey from their first meeting to their breakup.
Early Relationship and Engagement
Hoda Kotb, a co-host of the “Today” show, started dating financier Joel Schiffman in 2013. They met in 2013 at an event in New York City. The couple kept their relationship on the down low for two years before going public in 2015. On a tropical vacation in November 2019, Schiffman proposed to Kotb, marking a significant milestone in their romance.
Adoption and Family Life
Kotb announced the adoption of her first daughter, Haley Joy, in February 2017. In April 2019, she announced the adoption of her second daughter, Hope Catherine. Kotb frequently expressed her gratitude for his help on her journey to motherhood and thanked him for joining their family.
Postponed Wedding Plans
The couple originally planned to get married in 2020. But when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, they decided to delay their wedding, putting the safety and health of their loved ones first. Kotb said they wanted the ceremony somewhere special and hoped to celebrate one day.
Separation and Commitment to Co-Parenting
Kotb announced that they had split in January 2022 after eight years together. She stressed that the separation was amicable, saying they are “better as friends and parents” in her statement. “I’m a better person for knowing you; thank you,” Kotb said, praising Schiffman as a “great guy.”
Life After the Relationship
Kotb and Schiffman, however, have remained dedicated co-parents despite their split. They still celebrate holidays and special occasions with their daughters collectively.
For example, Kotb and Schiffman reunited to celebrate Christmas with their daughters. Kotb and her family celebrated the holiday at her new suburban house in Westchester County, New York. Kotb shared pictures from the festive event on Instagram, with the family decked out in matching pajamas as they participated in Christmas festivities. It included Kotb’s mother and sister, as the family focused on unity and shared experiences.
Personal Growth Reflections
Kotb announced on Sept. 5, 2024, that she was departing the “Today” show after 26 years to spend more time with her family. She said her daughter had a health scare earlier in the year, which made her reconsider work obligations and refocus on family. Kotb will leave her anchor seat in January, with Craig Melvin taking over.
Through all these changes, Kotb remains upbeat about her personal life.
Kotb remains hopeful about finding love again, telling ET that she can “see romance clearly” and that she thinks “it’s coming” for her.
Hoda and Joel’s relationship journey, from their initial meeting and adoption of their daughters to their amicable separation and co-parenting, is proof of their commitment to family and mutual respect. Their holiday celebration reflects their commitment to raising their children in a loving and supportive environment despite moving on to different stages in their personal and professional lives.
