Kathie Lee Gifford celebrated Hoda Kotb’s final day on NBC’s “Today” with a surprise appearance and a wine toast after initially sharing that she was too “busy” to stop by.

“Hello, my dear. Hoda wife, Hoda mom, Hoda everything. I’m here in Tennessee wishing I was with you in New York sharing all the memories we’ve made over the years and just the opportunity to hug you – I’ve always loved hugging you and just “To bathe in that beautiful sunshine of a smile. That’s what you have,” Gifford said in a video message as Kotb and co-host Jenna Bush Hager looked on from the set.

“You are so loved, so loved, Hoda. I hope you all feel that. I’m sorry to miss your big day, you know I’m very busy – very busy, very important…not. I love you, darling – I’m so happy for you.”

After the video ended, Hager chimed in and said, “You know what, that’s a lie. Kathy is here. Come out one, Kathy!”

Gifford then took the stage, immediately drawing thunderous applause from the audience. Kotb and Gifford’s original music “Today” played in the background as the two former colleagues danced and hugged.

As the three sat down, Gifford asked if Kotb “fell for that claim” that she wouldn’t be in the studio on her last day, to which Kotb replied she had hoped she would be there.

“I was wondering, because I love you so much, I was like, ‘I really hope Kath comes,'” Kotb said. “I’m so glad you’re here.”

Gifford replied, “Well, I have a message for you, Hoda… The best is yet to come, and, Hoda, won’t it be okay?”

Together they reflected on their 11 years of hosting the news talk series. Afterward, Hager told Gifford that she knew her “love language was toast,” and “Today” producer Donna Farizan brought out wine for the entire crew.

As the four women clinked glasses, Gifford tearfully toasted Kotb with a scripture to say goodbye.

“I say goodbye to you with a prayer. First, Jeremiah says, “I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord. Plans to bring you prosperity and not harm you and to give you a future and hope.’ And the other thing is: May the Lord God make his face shine upon you and give you peace. His peace that passes all understanding. May you enter the most joyful, prosperous and meaningful time of your life… Bless you my dear friend. I love you so much.”

After 26 years at NBC, Kotb announced in September 2024 that she would be leaving the show. The veteran journalist will continue to have a place at the station, but her position has yet to be announced.

Check out the full moment in the video above.

The post Kathie Lee Gifford celebrates Hoda Kotb’s last “Today” with a surprise appearance and wine: “The best is yet to come!” | The video first appeared on TheWrap.