NBC EXPLOSIVE REVELATION: Hoda Kotb FINALLY Speaks Out About Today Show Exit — “I Was Fired for Mocking Caitlin Clark on Set… It Was Covered Up and Never Aired!”
In a shocking and candid interview that is already sending ripples through the entertainment industry, beloved morning television host Hoda Kotb has finally broken her silence about her sudden departure from NBC’s Today Show. The reason? According to Kotb herself, it was a direct result of mocking WNBA superstar Caitlin Clark during a live segment — an incident that was “covered up and never aired.”
A Surprise Confession
For months, rumors have swirled about the true cause behind Hoda Kotb’s unexpected exit from the Today Show. Official statements were vague, citing “creative differences” and “new opportunities,” but now, in an exclusive interview with a major media outlet, Kotb pulls back the curtain on what really happened.
“I made a huge mistake,” she admitted. “I made a joke about Caitlin Clark on set that crossed a line. It wasn’t supposed to go on air — but it got back to the bosses. And that was it. I was fired.”
What Was the Joke?
Insiders say that during a rehearsal for a segment about Clark’s recent meteoric rise in the sports world, Kotb made a sarcastic comment about Clark’s intense media coverage, implying that the athlete was “too much too fast” and wouldn’t be able to handle the pressure.
Though intended as a private joke, it was overheard by a production assistant who reported it to higher-ups. The comment quickly became a serious issue behind the scenes, as Clark’s team reportedly confronted NBC about the inappropriate remarks.
Why Was It Covered Up?
The network, aiming to protect both its star host and the athlete, allegedly swept the incident under the rug. No mention was made publicly, and Kotb’s departure was framed as a mutual decision to part ways.
“NBC didn’t want a scandal,” a source close to the production revealed. “They wanted to avoid any negative press connected to Caitlin Clark, who’s rapidly becoming a major figure.”
The Fallout
For Kotb, the consequences were swift and severe. What had been a long and successful career at NBC suddenly came to an abrupt end. Since leaving the show, she’s kept a low profile, focusing on personal projects and staying out of the spotlight.
“It was painful,” Kotb confessed. “I never imagined my career would end this way. But I understand why they had to act. It was a lesson learned the hard way.”
Caitlin Clark’s Response
While Caitlin Clark has not publicly commented on Kotb’s revelations, sources say she was deeply hurt by the remarks but chose to focus on her career and charitable work instead of engaging in the controversy.
“She’s all about positivity and moving forward,” said one insider close to Clark. “She didn’t want to give the situation any more attention.”
Public Reaction: Support and Shock
Fans of both women have been vocal on social media since Kotb’s confession aired.
“I’m so proud of Hoda for finally telling the truth,” one tweet read.
“But also, this shows how high the stakes are when it comes to celebrity and media.”
Others expressed disappointment, feeling Kotb should have handled the situation with more care.
What’s Next?
Hoda Kotb says she is ready to move on and rebuild her career but admits the incident will always be a part of her story.
“I hope people can learn from my mistake,” she said. “And maybe one day I’ll have the chance to return to the screen in a new way.”
NBC has declined to comment on the matter.