Billy Eichner, typically known for his energetic and unpredictable nature, displayed a more composed demeanor during his appearance on Today With Hoda & Jenna. However, he couldn’t resist his mischievous side right at the conclusion of the interview.
The actor, recognized for his role as Mufasa, took the opportunity to extend well wishes to Hoda Kotb on her upcoming retirement. Yet, he playfully mentioned previous guests on the show, such as Jamie Lee Curtis, who had managed to bring tears to Hoda’s eyes with their heartfelt messages.
As Jenna Bush Hager was wrapping up the conversation, Billy seized the moment to speak before the show cut to a commercial break. He expressed, “Hoda, I have been tuning in regularly, and I’ve noticed a trend. Everyone who appears here seems to evoke tears from you. I certainly don’t want to follow suit. I aim to avoid reducing you to tears on your own show. Nevertheless, I must acknowledge your significant presence as a New York and television icon. Your absence will undoubtedly be felt.”
Kotb appeared to appreciate his kind words as she placed a hand over heart.
But there was more! “Because I don’t want to be like everyone else, I also want to say I think it’s high time you get the hell out of here,” he added, causing Kotb and Bush Hager to laugh.
Kotb even got up to high-five the comedian and give him a hug.
“I’m kidding, I love you,” he said as he congratulated her again.
There are several guests Eichner may have been referring to as Kotb has been congratulated time and time again for her retirement on the show, but one moment in particular moved the longtime Today host to tears.
Jason Segel recently ended his Today Show interview with a heartfelt message for Kotb, telling her, “I’m going to miss you when you’re gone.”
“I just want you to know these interviews have been some of the best of my whole career so I’m really grateful to know you,” he said.
Kotb had tears in her eyes as she thanked him. They later shared a hug off-camera, after which Kotb was seen wiping her eyes.
Kotb’s last day on The Today Show and Today With Hoda & Jenna will be Friday, Jan. 10. Her final week on the broadcast will culminate with a live taping of Today With Hoda & Jenna in front of a live audience in an hour-long celebration that Bush Hager has dubbed a “Hoda-bration.”
Today with Hoda & Jenna airs on weekdays at 10/9c on NBC.
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