Hoda Kotb recently shared her personal experience with body shaming from a past boss during an episode of “Today with Hoda & Jenna.” The 60-year-old host reflected on comments made by actor Timothée Chalamet regarding the pressure to alter one’s body to secure significant film roles. Kotb expressed her connection to this struggle, shedding light on her own history.
During the show, Kotb recalled starting her career in a smaller market and how her views on fitness were challenged. “I played basketball in high school, so I thought I was in shape. But after college, I wasn’t really,” she said. The turning point came when a former boss approached her with an unsolicited suggestion: “Hey, Hoda, I think maybe you might wanna try to get on the treadmill.” She humorously mimicked the conversation, recalling how surprised she was by the comment.
Jenna Bush Hager, her co-host, reacted in disbelief, asking, “No!” This prompted Kotb to reflect on how people often have a different perception of themselves compared to how the world sees them. “You know when you have a perception of yourself that is not the perception of the world?” Kotb pondered, emphasizing that external expectations can be overwhelming.
Bush Hager also shared her own experience, mentioning how she was advised to avoid saying “y’all” on air but could not change who she truly is. Kotb agreed, stating that while it is important to adapt to certain workplace norms, one should never lose their authentic self in the process. “Sometimes you have to make small changes to fit into a work environment,” she concluded.
This discussion highlights the ongoing challenges many face in balancing their identity with the expectations of their careers.
