Hoda Kotb Returns to TV, Reunites with Savannah Guthrie During Thanksgiving Parade

Hoda Kotb returned to live television during the 2023 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade on November 23. This marks her first appearance since a period away from the show due to personal matters. Fans and colleagues expressed excitement over her reunion with co-host Savannah Guthrie, emphasizing the chemistry that has characterized their partnership.

The Thanksgiving Parade has become an annual tradition for Kotb and Guthrie. Their dynamic together is part of the reason the event remains popular, drawing over 3.5 million viewers last year. Kotb's re-emergence comes at a time when many were eager to see their favorite anchors back on screen together, especially since Guthrie had been anchoring solo.

Kotb's absence from the show began in early February 2023, coinciding with personal challenges that included her daughter's health issues. Previously, she returned to work after a similar sabbatical in 2021 following her personal experiences related to adoption. This marked the second time in such a short period that her role was interrupted.

Sources say that industry insiders anticipated Kotb's return would rekindle interest in the show. The reunion mirrors past occasions when other high-profile partnerships faced setbacks, such as the temporary absence of Kelly Ripa from "Live with Kelly and Ryan" before her return in 2020. Each instance tended to refresh viewer interest significantly.

This Thanksgiving, Kotb's appearance also aligns with other recent media projects she is involved in. Kotb has been preparing for her new children's book, "I’m So Glad You’re Here", set to release in early 2024. This project continues her focus on uplifting narratives, another reason fans appreciate her.

According to Nielsen ratings, the 2022 Thanksgiving Parade viewership was among the highest for televised events, only second to the New Year’s Eve broadcasts. Kotb and Guthrie's interaction during the parade is expected to play a significant role in this year's audience numbers.

Looking ahead, Kotb's presence on the show hints at a commitment to stay engaged in high-visibility projects. Following her return, speculation suggests that she might co-host upcoming holiday specials with Guthrie as part of NBC's broader festive programming.

In closing, Kotb's reunion with Guthrie at the parade signifies more than just a return; it highlights the resilience and adaptability of their partnership. This return could lead to improved ratings for the show, as history shows audiences tend to engage more with familiar and beloved personalities.