Hoda Kotb Broke Down in Tears On the ‘Today’ Show and It’s So Relatable It Hurts

In light of the coronavirus pandemic, we’re all a little (okay, a lot) emotional—and celebrities aren’t immune.

That was made apparent when ‘Today’ show co-host Hoda Kotb broke down in tears live on air.

Hoda was in the middle of interviewing New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees, who had just made a $5 million donation to the state of Louisiana, an obvious generous ac tof kindness in the midst of a world of horror. Once he signed off, the news seemed to hit her right in the heart.

Hoda wasn’t even able to finish her segment she was so beside herself. As she apologized to the screen among tears flowing down her face, viewers related to her hard.

Co-anchor Savannah Guthrie soon came on screen, acknowledging Hoda’s emotions. “I know, it’s a lot. I’m so sorry, hun. Take a moment. It’s a lot. We know it’s a lot. I know where your heart is,” she said, soon offering to take over the next segment.

“Yes please,” Hoda said between tears.

Of course, no one could be upset with Hoda for not being able to continue with her news report. There’s a lot going on right now, and sometimes it hits you at inopportune times.

But the thing is, people know that. And Hoda’s breakdown was met with so much positivity and light. People on Twitter acknowledged the emotions as genuine and, in some ways, even felt a little comforted by it, knowing they were not alone.

“We are in the midst of a world crisis and it’s stressful and hard,” someone wrote. “I’m happy to see some honest, caring, and real emotion from the wonderful Hoda.”

“Thanks for showing your humanity love and hope. Love you Hoda!” another person posted.

Even TV personalities had to weigh in. Kim Kelly Hudson, anchor and reporter for FOX2/News 11 in St. Louis responded, “I get it. I really do. I think a lot of people don’t understand how often on-air journalists try to find a corner to cry in. When your camera is hot, there is no corner.”

Remember, it’s okay to cry sometimes—especially amid a pandemic (or on live TV)! Crying has actually been shown to help alleviate the pain you’re going to and release endorphins, especially important in an uncertain time.

So go ahead, let it out. Hoda did in front of millions of viewers, after all.

How has the coronavirus outbreak affected your well-being? How do you cope with your evolving emotions?