Hoda Kotb’s Emotional On-Air Bombshell: Secret Reconciliation with Ex-Fiancé Joel Schiffman and Adoption of Baby Boy Stuns Studio

Byline: Entertainment & Lifestyle Desk New York, December 29, 2025 – In a moment that left the Today show studio in stunned silence and viewers across America reaching for tissues, former co-anchor Hoda Kotb broke down in tears live on air during a special holiday guest appearance, revealing that she and ex-fiancé Joel Schiffman have quietly rekindled their romance after years apart. With her voice trembling, Kotb whispered the words that shook the nation: “It’s a boy…” announcing that the couple has just welcomed a baby boy through adoption.

The 61-year-old broadcasting icon, who stepped away from her full-time role on Today in January 2025 to prioritize family, returned for a heartfelt holiday segment. What began as a lighthearted chat about life’s unexpected joys quickly turned profoundly personal. “Love always finds its way back,” Kotb said through sobs, as co-hosts Savannah Guthrie, Jenna Bush Hager, and Craig Melvin sat frozen in shock before erupting in emotional applause and hugs.

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Kotb and Schiffman, 67, a financier, were together for nearly a decade, adopting daughters Haley Joy (now 8) and Hope Catherine (now 6) during their relationship. They got engaged in 2019 but called it off in 2022, announcing they were better as friends and co-parents. Since then, they’ve maintained an amicable relationship, frequently reuniting for holidays, birthdays, and family milestones—most recently celebrating Christmas 2025 together in matching pajamas with the girls and extended family.

Sources close to the couple reveal the reconciliation began quietly earlier this year, sparked by shared family moments and deep conversations about their unbreakable bond. “They never stopped loving each other,” an insider shared. “The split was about timing and priorities, but with Hoda’s new chapter post-Today, everything aligned.” The decision to adopt again came naturally, fulfilling a long-held dream Kotb had expressed in interviews, including her desire for a third child.

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The new addition—a healthy baby boy whose name has not yet been revealed—arrived just weeks ago, completing their family in a way no one expected. Kotb, who adopted Haley at age 52 and Hope at 54 after overcoming breast cancer and believing motherhood might pass her by, described the moment as “a full-circle miracle.” On air, she tearfully recounted holding their son for the first time alongside Schiffman, echoing the joy she felt with their daughters.

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Co-hosts reacted with overwhelming emotion. Guthrie wiped away tears, saying, “This is the best news we’ve heard all year.” Bush Hager, Kotb’s longtime fourth-hour partner, hugged her tightly, whispering, “I’m so happy for you.” The studio audience gave a standing ovation, and social media exploded with messages of congratulations and shock, trending #HodaBabyBoy and #LoveFindsItsWay worldwide.

Kotb’s journey to motherhood has inspired millions. Diagnosed with breast cancer in 2007, which left her unable to conceive biologically, she turned to adoption and has been open about the process. She and Schiffman welcomed Haley in 2017 and Hope in 2019, with Kotb announcing both live on Today. This third adoption marks a poignant new beginning, especially amid recent family challenges, including Hope’s Type 1 diabetes diagnosis earlier in 2025.

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Since leaving Today, Kotb has focused on her wellness brand, podcast, and family, often sharing glimpses of life with Haley and Hope. The girls, described as thrilled big sisters, have already bonded with their baby brother. Schiffman, who has remained a devoted co-parent, is said to be overjoyed at this second chance.

As the segment ended, Kotb smiled through tears: “Sometimes the greatest surprises come when you least expect them.” Fans are eagerly awaiting more details, with Kotb teasing future updates. This heartwarming revelation reminds us all that love, family, and hope can rewrite even the most unexpected stories.

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