In a heartfelt twist that few saw coming, beloved Today Show anchor Hoda Kotb has revealed not only that she and her former fiancé Joel Schiffman have adopted a third child—but that their journey back to one another led to an emotional gender reveal that brought tears to fans across the country.

The news broke live on Today in an unannounced segment that quickly became one of the show’s most viral and touching moments of the year. With blue confetti cascading through the studio, Kotb tearfully announced the arrival of her and Joel’s newborn son.

“I’m so thrilled to tell you… Joel and I have welcomed a beautiful baby boy,” Kotb said, her voice cracking with emotion. “We are over the moon. This little guy is already so deeply loved.”

An Unexpected Reunion

Hoda and Joel, who split in early 2022 after eight years together, have remained devoted co-parents to their daughters, Haley Joy and Hope Catherine. Their breakup, which Hoda shared publicly on Today, was marked by honesty and mutual respect. At the time, she explained that the pair had grown apart romantically but would remain “loving parents” and close friends.

However, behind the scenes, something quietly shifted.

Sources close to the couple say they began reconnecting earlier this year, rediscovering their shared love of parenting and the deep emotional foundation they’d built together over nearly a decade.

“They found their way back to each other through their shared values and the joy of parenting,” a family friend shared. “It was never about falling out of love—it was about timing, healing, and rediscovery.”

While the couple has not formally labeled their relationship as “back together,” their actions speak volumes—and their united decision to grow their family again is proof of a powerful bond.

A Baby Boy and a Burst of Emotion

During the surprise announcement, viewers watched as Kotb’s co-hosts erupted in cheers and applause when the blue confetti confirmed the baby’s gender. Though the name of the new addition has not yet been shared, Hoda confirmed that he is healthy and settling in well.

“He fits,” she said simply. “It’s like he was always meant to be part of us.”

Fans flooded social media with emotional reactions, praising Hoda’s transparency and celebrating her expanding family.

“Did NOT have Hoda and Joel reuniting AND adopting a baby boy on my 2025 bingo card,” one tweet read.

“I’m crying in my kitchen. Hoda Kotb is such a light. She deserves all the happiness,” another added.

A Journey Rooted in Love and Resilience

Hoda first became a mother in 2017, adopting Haley Joy when she was 52 years old following a battle with breast cancer. In 2019, she and Joel adopted their second daughter, Hope Catherine. Her motherhood journey—later in life and shaped by personal trials—has inspired millions.

“I always say, ‘You didn’t come from Mommy’s tummy, you came from my heart,’” she shared in a 2021 interview.

Her choice to adopt again at 60, especially during a period of reflection and transformation, speaks to her deep belief in the power of love, no matter one’s age or circumstances.

“We’re Simply Following Love”

Though fans are eager to know the current status of Kotb and Schiffman’s relationship, the couple has opted not to define it publicly.

“We’re not labeling anything. We’re simply following love,” Hoda said. “And right now, that love has brought us to this beautiful little boy.”

Insiders confirm that the couple is now focused on parenting and embracing their new chapter as a family of five. Close friends say they’ve found a rhythm that works—rooted in patience, gratitude, and mutual support.

Redefining Family and Inspiring Others

Kotb’s journey as an “older mom” has consistently challenged societal expectations, and her willingness to share her story has offered comfort to countless others navigating unconventional paths to parenthood.

“I see all the good parts about being an older mom,” she said previously. “I’m in my own skin, I know who I am, and I’ve got much more patience and love.”

As the new addition settles into the home filled with big sisters and open arms, Hoda Kotb continues to shine as a voice of hope—for parents, for those considering adoption, and for anyone still waiting on their next chapter.

In an industry where headlines often focus on breakups and scandal, this story is a welcome reminder that love can take time, healing is real, and the most joyful surprises are sometimes the ones we never saw coming.