In a Christmas Day episode filled with more genuine emotion than your average Hallmark movie, Today co-host Hoda Kotb found herself unexpectedly moved during the show’s Secret Santa gift exchange. The source of the waterworks? A thoughtful present from fellow host Savannah Guthrie, one imbued with shared history and a touch of melancholy.
Guthrie’s gift to Kotb consisted of wishing candles and a handwritten quote from the song “May You Find a Light” by Josh Garrels. As Kotb explained, the song held special significance, a comforting presence during times of change and uncertainty. “It’s a beautiful song that Savannah gave to me every time I was going through something new,” Kotb shared, her voice thick with emotion. “Oh my God, it’s too much,” she added, dabbing at her eyes as Guthrie offered a practical suggestion: “I thought you could put it on your desk in the morning when you’re reading your stuff.”
The exchange took on added poignancy given Kotb’s impending departure from Today. After 17 years, Kotb’s final episode is scheduled for January 10, 2024, making the Christmas gift a bittersweet reminder of shared moments and enduring bonds.
The rest of the gift exchange offered lighter fare, a mix of practical jokes and personalized presents. Craig Melvin received a dog sweater from Guthrie for new canine companion, Fetch, while he gifted Kotb a New York Mets blanket, a nod to an inside joke about his new role on Today. Kotb explained the code they used before his new position was public: “Every time I looked at Craig and I said, ‘Let’s go Mets,’ he knew that I was cheering him on.” Carson Daly gave a “legacy journal” to a temporarily absent Al Roker for his grandchildren, and Roker, through Melvin, reciprocated with a large jacket for Daly’s cold plunge routine.
While the other gifts elicited chuckles, it was Guthrie’s gesture to Kotb that resonated most deeply.
Today airs weekdays on NBC.
