New York, NY – In a candid and heartfelt revelation, beloved Today show co-anchor Hoda Kotb shared the news in early 2022 that she and her longtime partner, Joel Schiffman, had ended their engagement. The announcement stunned fans, who had followed the couple’s journey through nearly a decade of romance, family milestones, and public displays of affection.

Speaking live on-air during a segment of Today with Hoda & Jenna, Kotb confirmed the breakup, stating, “Joel and I have had a lot of prayerful and really meaningful conversations over the holidays, and we decided that we’re better as friends and parents than we are as an engaged couple.”

The couple, who began dating in 2013 and got engaged in 2019, had long been admired for their commitment to one another and their two adopted daughters, Haley Joy and Hope Catherine. Kotb and Schiffman always appeared as a united front, and there was no public sign of discord before the split.

“There was no event,” Kotb emphasized. “There was no big fight. It was just a decision that felt right.”

A MUTUAL AND LOVING DECISION

Insiders close to the couple echoed Kotb’s sentiment, describing the split as amicable and mature. “Hoda and Joel are both incredible people who simply realized they were better as co-parents and friends,” a source shared. “They wanted to model honesty and kindness for their children.”

Despite the end of their engagement, Kotb expressed deep gratitude for the years they spent together and the life they built. She made it clear that Schiffman will continue to be a major presence in their daughters’ lives.

“Sometimes in life, you just realize that love changes shape,” Kotb said. “It doesn’t go away—it just evolves.”

MOVING FORWARD WITH GRACE

Since the split, both Kotb and Schiffman have maintained a low profile regarding their personal lives. Kotb, who continues to anchor Today, has spoken occasionally about navigating single parenthood, emphasizing resilience, healing, and joy.

Her openness about the breakup has resonated with many, especially those who understand that not all relationships are meant to last forever in their original form—even when love and respect remain.

Kotb summed it up best: “It’s not a failure. It’s a new chapter.”