Hoda Kotb is a strong advocate for adoption and it’s all thanks to an unexpected source.
The journalist has two daughters she adopted with her ex-fiance, Joel Schiffman. Though the couple’s romantic relationship didn’t work out, they developed a strong co-parenting relationship for the girls. Today, Haley Joy and Hope Catherine are thriving and love spending time with their family.
In a new interview with Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman, Hoda Kotb vulnerably revealed the moment she knew she wanted to adopt children of her own. Her response brought Bullock to tears.
Hoda Kotb Credits Sandra Bullock With Her Decision to Adopt
Accomplished journalist and “Today” anchor Hoda Kotb wasn’t always sure what parenthood might look like for her. But in 2017, she revealed that she adopted a baby girl, Haley. Kotb adopted another daughter in 2019, Hope.
“Aaaaand now we’re crying, too. 🥹 Hoda sat down with Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman on TODAY ahead of the release of ‘Practical Magic 2,’ where Hoda got to tell Sandra that adoption changed her life,” the official “Today” Instagram account captioned a snippet of the interview.
Though Hoda has always had a tremendous heart and passion for children, a little nudge from Sandra Bullock pushed her toward adoption.
“I got home, I turned on the TV, and one of those shows had mentioned that Sandra Bullock had adopted a baby from New Orleans named Louis. She changed the course of my life,” Kotb remembered.
Bullock adopted Louis in 2010 and another child, Laila, in 2015. She loved welcoming the children into her life, but had no idea their adoption stories would bring other families together too.
“I now have a nine-year-old and a seven-year-old solely because of that moment,” Hoda Kotb explained, prompting Sandra Bullock to tear up.
“Timing is amazing isn’t it 🥹♥️” Bullock replied in the comments, still touched by the heartwarming interaction with the “Today” anchor.
“This really is one drop of water rippling across and not knowing the impact you have,” a viewer added.
“Never lose hope. Families are created in many beautiful ways, 💞” another chimed in.
The ‘Today’ Anchor Built a Strong Co-Parenting Relationship With Her Ex
Though Hoda Kotb and Joel Schiffman ended their engagement, they’ve always put Haley and Hope first. Despite ending their romantic relationship, the exes have always spoke highly and respectfully of one another.
“Best father’s day to the best father ❤️” Kotb honored her ex-fiance Joel Schiffman on Father’s Day this year. She attached a sweet photo of Schiffman embracing his girls. He doesn’t have an active online presence, but Hoda occasionally includes him in her own photos and posts.
“I love that you still love your girl’s dad even though you aren’t together. You’re a great mom,” one fan praised the journalist in the comments.
“This brings tears to my heart, so lovely it will make for a happy family forever,❤️” another chimed in.
At the end of the day, fans are delighted to know that Haley and Hope are being raised by two people who love them unconditionally.
“Practical Magic 2” hits theaters on Thursday, September 10.
