Hoda Kotb fought back tears during her final show as Today co-anchor Friday. The emotional broadcast marked the end of her 26-year run at NBC.

The 60-year-old journalist announced her departure last September. Her last week featured special tributes from colleagues and fans. Longtime co-host Savannah Guthrie struggled to hold back tears as their morning partnership ended.

“I’ve been too emotional to say this properly,” Kotb said, her voice cracking. She touched the “with you” bracelet Guthrie gave her. “Thank you for everything. I leave feeling so loved.”

The show included sweet surprises. Oprah Winfrey sent a video message. Staff made a tribute reel showing Kotb’s kindness. Guthrie’s emotional words stood out most. “Whether we’re at this desk or not, I’ll always be by your side,” she said.

Al Roker shared a touching story. He recalled Kotb visiting him daily during his 2022 hospitalization. “Nurses thought she was staff,” he joked. Kotb wiped tears away as fans outside held “We’ll Miss You” signs.

Craig Melvin suggested renaming their window view “The Hoda Window.” Her daughters Haley, 7, and Hope, 5, surprised her with hugs. Kermit the Frog even sang “The Rainbow Connection.”

Earlier in the week, fans gathered at Rockefeller Plaza with handmade signs. “People flew across America just to hug you,” Guthrie told Kotb.

Their close friendship showed clearly last December. Guthrie gave Kotb wish candles with the lyric “May you find the light to guide you home.” The gift made Kotb cry. The Josh Garrels song had comforted her during tough times.

“I thought you could keep this on your new desk,” Guthrie had said. As Friday’s show ended, their unbreakable bond felt clearer than ever.