Hoda Kotb Announces Split From Joel Schiffman After 8 Years

There is a newly single woman in town as Hoda Kotb recently announced her split from her longtime sweetheart Joel Schiffman.

Kotb and Schiffman were in a relationship for two years short of a decade and even got engaged six years after dating.

The "Lee and Hoda" host got candid about why she and her ex-fiancé are going their separate ways and how they plan to co-parent their children.

On Monday, January 31, Kotb made a shocking announcement on the "TODAY" show that she and her fiance had broken up.

During the program's fourth hour, the American journalist explained why she had not been spotted with her engagement ring lately. Kotb said to her co-host, Jenna Bush Hager:

"Joel and I have had a lot of prayerful and really meaningful conversations over the holidays, and we decided that we're better as friends and parents than we are as an engaged couple."

The NBC personality explained that she and her ex are starting 2022 on a new path as friends and loving parents to her adorable children, Haley Joy Kotb and Hope Catherine Kotb.

Though the couple of eight years are no longer lovers, the mother-of-two confirmed that they decided on the best of terms, adding:

"It's not like something happened. They say sometimes relationships are meant to be there for a reason or a season or for a lifetime. And I feel like ours was meant to be there for a season.”

The broadcaster felt it was awkward and weird to break the news to the public but thought she must be open about the difficult parts of life that she wanted to forget. Kotb posited:

"I think a lot of women know what this feels like in this moment to be changing course in life and I feel really brave in this moment … Sometimes in your life, you just have to say the truth."

The courageous decision of the "Making Space With Hoda Kotb" star evoked the love and support of fans worldwide, who bombarded her with their best wishes.

A fan wrote, "Appreciate the honesty Hoda. Both you and Jenna keep it real. Only you know how you feel and how you want to proceed with life. Wishing you the best Hoda."

Another Twitter user commented, "I am so sad to hear this news Hoda, but yet I am happy for you… you are so brave & spoke & acted on your truth. Happiness to you Joel & the kids."

The well-wisher summarised the majority of messages to Kotb by heralding a better future for her, writing, "The best is yet to come! You are amazing, strong, smart and you are beautiful!"

Following Schiffman's proposal to Kotb in November 2019, Dolly Parton offered the then couple advice on enjoying their married life.

In April 2020, The Blast disclosed that Parton, who has been married for over 55 years to Carl Thomas Dean, gave the "TODAY" co-host marriage advice.

The "A Holly Dolly Christmas" musician said that if Kotb feels trapped in the house with Schiffman, they should stay in separate rooms.

Parton also emphasized the importance of friendship and laughing through times. Even though she has a different sense of humor from Dean, she noted:

“I know it’s no laughing matter what’s going on, but laughter truly is the best medicine, and it’s true with relationships as well.'”

The latest variant of the Coronavirus, Omicron, has been rapidly finding its way to people worldwide, and Kotb became its victim this year.

The Blast shared that the journalist tested positive for COVID-19 on Thursday, January 6, despite receiving the vaccine and booster shots.

"TODAY" co-hosts Savannah Guthrie, Craig Melvin, and Sheinelle Jones shed light on their partner's absence before diving into the news that day. 

Craig said, "the reason Hoda is off like many others, she tested positive for COVID. But, Hoda tells us she's doing just fine, and we look forward to having her back very, very soon."

Kotb also updated fans on her health status on Twitter. She expressed, "Thx for well wishes! Feeling good.. ❤️ cant wait to see you all when I am in the clear! Xo."