Hoda Kotb, the renowned television personality, has been a familiar face on “The Today Show.” Beyond her professional success, her personal life has intrigued many, with questions swirling around her marital status. Let’s delve into the details and unravel the love story of Hoda Kotb.
Is Hoda Kotb Married?
Kotb’s romantic journey took a significant turn in 2013 when she crossed paths with New York financier Joel Schiffman. According to The Sun, the couple’s story began at an event for Wall Street professionals. The unexpected twist in their relationship came to light on November 25, 2019, when Kotb joyfully announced their engagement live.
“I was totally shocked,” she reminisced. “He had a good poker face.” The engagement unfolded during a tropical vacation, with Schiffman surprising Kotb with a heartfelt proposal on the beach. The couple shared their joy with the world, revealing their plans to expand their family through adoption.
The couple adopted two daughters, Haley Joy Kotb and Hope Catherine Kotb. Their desire to welcome a third child, however, faced delays, exacerbated by the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic. Despite the setbacks, Kotb maintained optimism, sharing her experiences on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen in July 2021.
“I thought it would be a different game,” Kotb expressed. The adoption process, affected by the pandemic, prompted her to reflect on the struggles others might face. Nevertheless, the couple faced another unexpected turn of events in January 2022.
By early 2022, Kotb and Schiffman made headlines with the revelation of their separation. On The Today Show, Kotb candidly shared the news, stating, “Joel and I have had a lot of prayerful and meaningful conversations over the holidays, and we decided that we are better as friends and parents than we are as an engaged couple.”
Their decision to part ways reflected a commitment to co-parenting their adopted children while embracing a new chapter in their lives. The announcement marked the end of their engagement but highlighted the importance of maintaining a loving family dynamic.
Who is Hoda Kotb’s Husband?
Before Joel Schiffman, Hoda Kotb was married to Burzis Kanga, a former University of New Orleans tennis coach. The couple tied the knot in 2005 but unfortunately parted ways in 2008. Kanga, a seasoned coach, had an illustrious career with coaching experiences at UNO and beyond.
Kanga’s coaching journey faced a challenge with his divorce, but he resiliently redirected his career toward success. Currently, he serves as the head coach for the New Orleans Privateers, overseeing both men’s and women’s tennis teams for the ninth consecutive year.
Conclusion
Hoda Kotb’s journey through love and relationships has been marked by joy, challenges, and resilience. From her marriage to Burzis Kanga to the engagement with Joel Schiffman, each chapter has contributed to her growth as a person and a parent.
As Kotb embraces a new beginning, her story remains a testament to the complexities of love and the unwavering commitment to family.