Renowned broadcaster Hoda Kotb’s recent exit from a popular talk show has caused mixed reactions. But it’s her reasons for leaving that are really sparking conversations online.
Journalist Hoda Kotb recently announced her decision to step down as co-anchor of the “Today” show, leading to widespread discussions on social media and fan forums.
Many viewers have expressed surprise at the sudden announcement, as Hoda has been a central figure on the show for years. Some fans speculate there may be behind-the-scenes drama, while others think it could be a personal decision.
TV personality Hoda Kotb, who co-anchored the “Today” show with Savannah Guthrie for over five years, recently opened up about her journey during a live broadcast. Her full statement was later shared on the “Today” show’s Instagram page.
She said, “My time at NBC has been the longest professional love affair of my life, thanks to all of you. ‘Today’ and its amazing people never change—you all handle everything with grace and courage.”
In a letter, Hoda reflected on her 26-year career at NBC, which included ten years with “Dateline,” seven years on the 7 a.m. hour, and sixteen years on the 10 a.m. hour.She revealed that she had been thinking about this decision for a while, unsure if she was ready. However, her 60th birthday helped confirm that it was the right time to move forward.
Hoda talked about her meaningful career, nearly three decades long, and stressed the importance of spending more time with her daughters and her mother.
Although she will miss everyone, Hoda expressed excitement for the future and promised to continue working until early 2025, giving her time to discuss future plans with fans.
She assured viewers that the “Today” show team would continue to thrive, regardless of any changes. Hoda also expressed her gratitude to the NBC family, saying they would always have a special place in her heart.
Born in Egypt, Hoda has faced significant personal challenges throughout her career. She was diagnosed with breast cancer, and the treatment made it impossible for her to have children.
After surviving cancer, her marriage to tennis coach Burzis Kanga ended in divorce a year later. At the time, Hoda had accepted that she might never become a mother.
Despite that, Hoda always dreamed of motherhood. She thought about switching careers, possibly becoming a teacher or running a summer camp.
In 2017, Hoda adopted her first daughter, Haley Joy, and announced the joyful news on the “Today” show, sharing her happiness with her colleagues.
Less than ten days after bringing Haley home, Hoda had already settled into the routine of bottle feedings, diaper changes, and laundry in her Upper West Side penthouse. She found a new kind of love she had never felt before.
In 2019, she expanded her family by adopting another baby girl, Hope Catherine. Haley happily embraced her role as a big sister.
In March 2023, Hoda’s family faced a health scare when Hope had to stay in the hospital for a week, including a few days in the ICU.
Hoda took time off work to care for Hope, and after returning, she expressed deep gratitude that her daughter was recovering. She mentioned that the recovery would take time but remained optimistic.
Hoda shares her two daughters with her ex-fiancé, Joel Schiffman, to whom she was engaged from 2019 until 2022. As a single mom, she now lives with her daughters in a suburban home, moving from her New York City apartment in March 2024.
Moving to the suburbs was a hard decision, as Hoda had lived in the same apartment since adopting her daughters. But she felt the move would give her children new experiences, like playing in a yard and riding bikes in a safer, quieter area.
Turning 60 made Hoda reflect on her life, particularly the lessons of motherhood. She shared that her daughters showed her that anything is possible and helped her realize she is “good enough,” flaws and all.
Her daughters also taught her to find humor in challenges and reminded her that she was always meant to be a mother. As she grew older, Hoda felt that her children now deserved more of her time, which played a big role in her decision to leave the “Today” show.
However, some reports suggest another reason for Hoda’s departure. Allegedly, she left her $20 million-plus per year deal after NBC offered her a pay cut.
A media executive noted that this is part of a trend in TV news, where many are facing pay cuts or job losses. Since the news broke, people online have been actively discussing Hoda’s decision.
One user commented, “She made her millions. Now it’s time to spend them.” Another said, “Hoda is worth 30 million dollars. I’d quit too.”
Others showed support, with one person writing, “Your kids will love having more of you. Enjoy your newfound freedom.”
Hoda Kotb’s journey has been filled with challenges and successes, but her love for her family has always been her priority. As she moves into a new chapter, she focuses on what matters most—her daughters and their life together.
What is The Orange Dot at the Top of My iPhone?
If you’ve ever noticed a tiny orange dot in the top corner of your iPhone screen, you’ve probably wondered what it symbolizes. This strange dot, which appears to be innocuous but is actually quite concerning, has perplexed and alarmed many users.
`The rumor mill has produced tales about this dot being an indication that someone is secretly listening in on your talks, sending shivers down your spine and prompting concern. However, the truth is not as ominous as the misconceptions spreading on social media would have you assume.
With the release of iOS 14, Apple added these colored indicators as a security feature. The orange dot indicates that an app is now using your iPhone’s microphone. Similarly, its green equivalent denotes an app that uses either the camera or both the camera and microphone functions.
When to Worry (And When Not To)
Contrary to popular belief, the presence of an orange dot does not necessarily indicate that someone is listening in on your talks. Instead, it merely refers to a program that uses the microphone. It could be a social media site or chat app that needs access to the microphone to function properly.
If the orange dot makes you anxious, you may control app permissions on your iPhone. Go to Settings, then Privacy and Security, and finally Microphone. From there, you can select which apps can access your microphone and withdraw permissions for those you are unhappy with.
Managing iPhone’s Orange Dot
When that tiny orange dot appears, here’s how you can take control of your iPhone’s privacy:
Step 1: Investigate the culprit
Swipe down from the upper right corner of your screen to reach the Command Center. If an app recently used your microphone, a notification will show on top. Tap it to reveal the app responsible for the dot.
Step 2: Take Control in the Settings
If you locate an app to which you are uncomfortable providing microphone access, it is time to change. Navigate to iPhone Settings, then Privacy, then finally Microphone. You can evaluate which apps have requested access to your microphone and adjust permissions accordingly.
Step 3: Adjusting the Accessibility Settings
For individuals who find the orange dot bothersome or confusing, there is an option to change its look to a square. Navigate to Settings, select Accessibility, and then Display & Text Size. To transform the orange dot into a square shape, toggle on “Differentiate Without Color”.
Extra iPhone Measures for Peace of Mind
Remember, it’s not just about the orange dot; it’s about being comfortable with how your apps use your device’s functionality. If you’re concerned about camera access, the green dot, or general app permissions, repeat the procedures in Privacy settings to control access to your camera and other features.
Ultimately, your iPhone gives you control over app permissions. You have the authority to authorize or refuse access to any data gathering device, including the microphone and camera.
The presence of an orange dot on your iPhone is not reason for alarm. With an understanding of its significance and the ability to change app permissions, you can confidently traverse your device’s privacy landscape.
Understanding the orange dot’s purpose allows you to make more educated decisions about your privacy settings. It is not a hint of impending danger, but rather a warning that an app is accessing your microphone. By remaining aware and maintaining your app permissions, you can maintain control over your iPhone’s privacy and use it confidently.
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