Hoda Kotb, beloved co-anchor of NBC’s Today, has once again captured the hearts of fans across the country—this time with a surprise reunion that has been described by many as nothing short of “legendary.”

In a recently released video that quickly went viral, Kotb is seen reuniting with an old friend and former colleague in a heartwarming, emotional moment that left viewers in tears, smiling, and sharing messages of appreciation online.

The video, shared by the Today show’s official social media accounts, opens with a seemingly ordinary backstage moment before Hoda turns a corner and is stunned to see the familiar face of none other than Kathie Lee Gifford.

The former co-host, who shared a decade-long partnership with Kotb on the fourth hour of Today, had returned unexpectedly for a special segment—and the embrace that followed between the two women said more than words ever could.

For longtime fans of Today with Kathie Lee & Hoda, the reunion was more than just television nostalgia—it was a touching reminder of a dynamic duo that brought warmth, laughter, and a unique authenticity to daytime TV.

The two women spent over 11 years together on air, forming a genuine friendship that transcended the screen. Their morning broadcasts were famous for their candid chats, unfiltered humor, and heartfelt conversations, often over a glass of wine, which endeared them to millions of viewers.

Social media lit up the moment the reunion video went live. Fans from around the world flooded the comments with expressions of joy, gratitude, and emotion. “This made me cry! So beautiful to see them together again,” one user wrote on Instagram. Another added, “The chemistry, the love, the magic—it’s all still there. This is legendary.”

Hoda herself was visibly moved in the clip. Her surprise quickly turned into pure emotion as she rushed to embrace Kathie Lee, whispering through tears, “I’ve missed you so much.” The two women held each other tightly, laughing, tearing up, and reminiscing about the many years they spent side by side—on camera and off.

While the reunion was brief, it was far from superficial. Kathie Lee returned to promote a new memoir and to speak candidly about her life after Today, including her time in Nashville, her renewed focus on faith, and her upcoming creative projects. Yet, the true highlight of the visit was the emotional reconnection between two women who helped redefine daytime talk television.

“Watching them together again is like seeing lightning in a bottle,” a longtime fan posted on X, formerly Twitter. “There’s just something magical about the two of them—like no time has passed at all.”

The sentiment was echoed by many who noted how rare it is to see such genuine friendships endure in the entertainment industry, especially ones that were formed under the pressure and scrutiny of live television.

Hoda, who continues to co-host Today with Hoda & Jenna alongside Jenna Bush Hager, has often spoken about the impact Kathie Lee had on her career and her life.

In numerous interviews, she has credited her former co-host with giving her confidence, pushing her out of her comfort zone, and encouraging her to embrace her voice in an industry that can be relentless. Their connection, Hoda has said, was based on mutual respect, trust, and a deep understanding that they were better together.

In her own words during the reunion, Hoda reflected on how much she learned from Kathie Lee over the years. “You taught me how to really live on air. To be present. To let go. I wouldn’t be who I am without you,” she told her friend, her voice filled with emotion.

Kathie Lee, equally touched, responded with affection. “I always knew you had something so special. I just got to be part of it for a while,” she said. “And look at you now—shining, thriving. I couldn’t be prouder.”

Their moment together wasn’t just sentimental—it was inspiring. It reminded viewers that real connection, built on years of shared experience and honesty, is still possible in an industry often dominated by fleeting alliances and polished personas.

The reunion also sparked conversation about the state of morning television today and what makes certain hosts resonate so deeply with audiences.

While Hoda and Kathie Lee have both moved forward professionally, their legacy as a duo continues to influence the genre. Fans noted how refreshing their authenticity was—and how rare it remains.

In response to the outpouring of love, NBC later released a special behind-the-scenes look at the reunion, including footage of the two women sharing private laughs, reminiscing about their favorite on-air moments, and taking a walk through Studio 1A.

The short feature included throwback clips of their earliest broadcasts, bloopers, and heartfelt interviews that showcased just how much they meant to each other—and to their audience.

The reunion has also prompted speculation about whether Kathie Lee might return to the show in a guest capacity or even for a special series revisiting their best moments. While nothing has been confirmed, fans are hopeful.

Petitions have already started circulating online requesting a “Hoda & Kathie Lee Reunion Special,” and thousands of viewers have made it clear they’d tune in.

For Hoda, the experience appears to have been more than a publicity moment—it was a personal milestone. Following the video, she shared her own message on social media, writing: “What a gift today was. Some friendships are forever. Thank you for the memories—and for coming home.”

As the media landscape continues to evolve, with streaming platforms and changing viewer habits reshaping how we consume content, the emotional response to this reunion reminds us of the enduring power of real human connection on screen. It’s not about the set, the script, or the format—it’s about the people, and the way they make us feel.

In that sense, Hoda Kotb and Kathie Lee Gifford gave us a gift far beyond entertainment. They offered vulnerability, humor, love, and strength every morning, reminding us that laughter and empathy can coexist—and that the people who lift us up are the ones who stay with us forever.