Hoda Kotb, the beloved former Today show anchor, celebrated her 61st birthday on August 9, 2025, in a deeply emotional gathering that brought her family together, including her ex-fiancé, Joel Schiffman. The milestone was not just a celebration of another year but also a poignant moment for Hoda and her loved ones as they prepared to embark on a new chapter together—a journey shaped by the recent diagnosis of their younger daughter, Hope, with diabetes.
Surrounded by love, laughter, and the unwavering support of her family, Hoda shared that the day left her “overwhelmed” with gratitude and hope, a sentiment that resonated deeply with her followers and those closest to her.
The festivities began early, with Hoda’s home adorned with vibrant balloons, fragrant flowers, and cheerful ‘Happy Birthday’ bunting, setting the stage for a day filled with warmth and togetherness. Hoda took to Instagram to share a heartfelt video capturing the joy of the occasion, offering glimpses of her family’s love and the special moments they shared.
“Birthday just getting started—and already overwhelmed!” she captioned the touching clip, her words reflecting the depth of emotion she felt as she was enveloped by the love of her daughters, Haley and Hope, and Joel, who remains a steadfast presence in their lives.
Hoda’s fans flooded the comments section with birthday wishes, celebrating the woman who has long been a beacon of grace and kindness. One follower wrote, “Wishing the incredible @hodakotb a Happy Birthday! May your day be filled with the same love and joy you share with the world.”
Another added, “Happy Birthday @hodakotb—you are a true light, and we’re sending you all the love and best wishes for the year ahead.” A third chimed in, “May your birthday be as beautiful as your spirit, Hoda.
Here’s to health, happiness, and many more family moments.” The outpouring of affection underscored the profound impact Hoda has had on her audience, both through her work and her openness about her personal journey.
The day was a blend of simple joys and meaningful connections. Hoda spent time by the sea, soaking in the serenity of the moment, before gathering with her family for a heartfelt meal. Joel, who has remained a close friend and co-parent since their split in 2022, was by her side, a testament to their enduring bond.
The presence of Haley and Hope, the daughters they adopted together, made the celebration complete. Yet, beneath the smiles and laughter, there was a quiet strength as the family prepared for a new challenge: supporting Hope through her recent diabetes diagnosis.
Hoda and Joel’s relationship, which spanned eight years before their engagement in 2019, has evolved into a model of respectful co-parenting since their separation. In January 2022, Hoda announced on Today with Hoda & Jenna that she and Joel had decided to part ways romantically but remain committed to raising their daughters as a team.
“Joel and I have had a lot of prayerful and meaningful conversations over the holidays, and we decided that we’re better as friends and parents than we are as an engaged couple,” she shared with co-host Jenna Bush Hager. “We’re starting this new year on a new path as loving parents to our adorable, delightful children, and as friends.”
This commitment has been evident in their continued collaboration as parents. Hoda and Joel frequently reunite for family milestones, from birthdays to holidays, ensuring that Haley and Hope grow up surrounded by love and stability.
Reflecting on their journey in a 2022 interview with People, Hoda spoke candidly about the evolution of their relationship. “Sometimes relationships evolve. Sometimes, perfectly nice people can go their separate ways. Sometimes a relationship ends on your last breath, and sometimes it ends before that, and that’s okay,” she said.
“I don’t regret one day, not one minute, not one second of our time together because it brought me here.”
Hoda’s words took on new weight during her 61st birthday celebration, as the family faced the reality of Hope’s diabetes diagnosis. The condition, which requires careful management and lifestyle adjustments, has prompted Hoda and Joel to come together even more closely to support their daughter.
For Hoda, who has always been open about her gratitude for her children, this new journey is both daunting and unifying. “I have two incredible children I share with him,” she told People in 2022. “And it’s because of Joel that I have Haley and Hope, without question. I think I might have been too afraid to do it alone. That’s not something I love to admit, but it’s true.”
The birthday celebration was a reminder of the family’s resilience. As they sat together, sharing stories and laughter, Hoda and Joel were not just celebrating her milestone but also reaffirming their commitment to navigating Hope’s diagnosis as a united front.
The diagnosis has introduced new routines—monitoring blood sugar, adjusting diets, and learning about insulin management—but it has also deepened the family’s bond. Hoda, known for her optimism, has approached this challenge with the same grace that has defined her career and personal life. “We’re a team,” she said in a recent interview, emphasizing the importance of togetherness. “Hope is strong, and we’re all learning together.”
The day was not without its lighter moments. Hoda’s daughters brought an infectious energy to the celebration, their giggles filling the air as they played by the sea and helped decorate the house.
Joel’s presence, warm and familiar, added a layer of comfort, a reminder that their family remains whole despite the changes in their relationship. For Hoda, the love surrounding her on her 61st birthday was a powerful reminder of what matters most.
“This is what it’s all about,” she wrote on Instagram, her words accompanied by a photo of her daughters’ beaming faces. “Family, love, and being together—no matter what.”
As Hoda looks ahead, she is focused on supporting Hope while cherishing the moments that make their family unique. The journey with diabetes will require patience and education, but Hoda and Joel are determined to ensure that Hope feels empowered and supported. “We’re going to face this together,” Hoda shared, her voice steady with resolve. “Hope is our light, and we’ll do whatever it takes to keep her shining.”
The birthday celebration, though filled with joy, was also a moment of reflection for Hoda. She has often spoken about the transformative power of love and family, and this milestone was no exception. As she blew out the candles on her cake, surrounded by the people who mean the most to her, Hoda was reminded of the strength they draw from one another.
“I don’t regret one day, not one minute, not one second of our time together,” she said, her words echoing the gratitude and love that define her life. For Hoda, Joel, Haley, and Hope, this birthday marked not just another year but the beginning of a new journey—one they will face together, with courage, love, and an unbreakable bond.
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