In a heartwarming and thoughtful tribute, Hoda Kotb celebrated her ex-fiancé Joel Schiffman on his birthday with a series of sweet family photos on Instagram. The former Today host, 61, shared a glimpse into their close-knit family, as they continue to co-parent their two daughters, Hope, 6, and Haley, 9.
On March 22, Kotb posted two touching photos from the birthday celebrations. One photo captured Joel surrounded by his daughters, grinning ear-to-ear as they posed in front of a plate of pigs in blankets. In the second photo, it appeared to be a festive birthday party with unicorn decorations, a sparkly cake, and the family joyfully smiling together.
“Happy bday to the best DAD!!! 🎂,” Kotb wrote, showcasing the warmth and admiration she still has for Joel as a father, despite their split.
A Beautiful Family Bond
Though Hoda and Joel separated in 2021, their shared commitment to their daughters has remained unwavering. This is evident as they continue to spend holidays and special occasions together as a family. Last Christmas, Kotb posted a festive selfie with her daughters, her mom, her sister, and Schiffman, all wearing matching green Christmas pajamas and Santa hats. “Merry Christmas🎄❤️,” she captioned the joyous moment.:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(749x0:751x2)/hoda-kotb-joel-schiffman-tout-081324-afc2c68e9f2d4827b980a2c497220afc.jpg)
In another Instagram post, Kotb showed off the Halloween decorations she and Joel had shared with their daughters. The happy family was all smiles as they gathered for dinner, and the post was filled with the love and connection they still share. “Funday Sunday!” Kotb captioned, reflecting the contentment of their co-parenting arrangement.:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(515x296:517x298)/joel-schiffman-fathers-day-6d066d18c3fa4b83a8af838187dc3d1f.jpg)
Co-Parenting with Love and Respect
Hoda and Joel’s relationship has transitioned from romantic partners to loving co-parents. In a candid interview on Today with Hoda & Jenna, Kotb explained how their split was amicable and rooted in mutual respect. “Joel and I have had a lot of prayerful and meaningful conversations over the holidays, and we decided that we’re better as friends and parents than we are as an engaged couple,” Kotb said. “We are going to start this new year on our new path as loving parents.”
Their decision to separate wasn’t sparked by any specific incident but rather a realization that their relationship had run its course. “Sometimes relationships are meant to be there for a reason, or a season, or for a lifetime,” Kotb added, acknowledging that their journey together was meant to be a chapter in their lives rather than forever.
A Model of Parenthood and Friendship
Despite their separation, Kotb and Schiffman’s co-parenting dynamic continues to be a model of love, respect, and friendship. Fans of the Today show and their social media followers have admired how the two manage to maintain a healthy, supportive environment for their daughters. With their shared commitment to raising Hope and Haley, Hoda and Joel’s bond continues to inspire.
As Hoda continues her professional journey and Joel navigates life as a dedicated father, their family remains stronger than ever. Their ability to remain close friends and loving parents is a reminder that true family is built on love and mutual respect, no matter the circumstances.
Celebrating Love, Family, and the Beauty of New Beginnings
In celebrating Joel’s birthday, Hoda not only honored the father of her children but also the journey they have shared together. As they move forward in life, the love and joy that Kotb, Schiffman, and their daughters share continue to shine brightly — a reminder of the strength of family, even after a change in romantic dynamics.
