Hoda Kotb adopted her two children, Haley Joy and Hope Catherine, with her ex-fiancé Joel Schiffman. They got engaged in 2019 after dating for six years but unfortunately split in January 2022. Kotb announced the adoption of her first child, Haley Joy, in 2017, and later expanded her family with the adoption of Hope Catherine in 2019. Kotb's battle with breast cancer in 2007 led to her inability to conceive, but she found joy and fulfillment through adoption.

Haley Joy and Hope Catherine Hoda Kotb Daughters

Before her daughters arrived, Kotb did not believe that she would have a family of her own. She now cherishes her family above all else, something she never thought would happen. Even while Kotb was reporting from the 2024 Olympics in Paris, her daughters stayed connected and followed along from home.

Hoda adopted her first child at the age of 52, and she has been vocal about embracing motherhood at an older age. She expressed her happiness and fulfillment with her decision on Today with Hoda & Jenna in December 2023, emphasizing that she feels no shame in becoming a mother later in life.

Haley Joy, her elder daughter is 7 years old


In a 2021 interview for People's Me Becoming Mom podcast, Kotb talked about the moment she first held her adopted baby girl Haley in 2017. She described how Haley fit perfectly in her arms, and how she made a promise to always protect, love, and care for her as long as she is alive. The moment was filled with overwhelming emotions as Kotb gazed into Haley's eyes and felt an instant connection with her new daughter.

Hoda Kotb Daughters

Hoda Kotb youngest daughter is Hope


Kotb decided to adopt another child, Hope, in 2019. She was overjoyed and emotional when she was present for Hope's birth, expressing how her heart expanded with love. During a 2024 interview with People magazine, Kotb shared that her daughter Hope has been dealing with health issues, which is why she was absent from the TODAY show for two weeks. Kotb did not go into specifics about Hope's condition but praised her daughter for maintaining a positive attitude during this challenging time.

In 2024, Hoda Kotb published a children's book called "Hope Is a Rainbow," inspired by her youngest daughter, Hope. In a 2023 interview with TODAY.com, Kotb shared how Hope's unique perspective and resilience influenced the project. Hope's ability to find magic and wonder in everyday moments has taught Kotb valuable lessons about strength and the power of seeing the world through a child's eyes.