Hoda Kotb took to Instagram to celebrate her ex-fiancé Joel Schiffman’s birthday in the sweetest way, sharing heartfelt family photos featuring their daughters Haley and Hope. Despite splitting in 2022, Kotb and Schiffman have maintained a close, amicable co-parenting relationship, showing mutual respect and support during family milestones and holidays. 
Kotb and Schiffman first met in 2013, dating quietly for two years before going public in 2015. They became parents with the adoption of their eldest daughter, Haley, in 2017, followed by youngest daughter Hope in 2019. Schiffman proposed the same year they adopted Hope, but Kotb announced their separation on Today in January 2022.
On Sunday, March 22, Kotb wished Schiffman a happy birthday on Instagram with a caption that read, “Happy bday to the best DAD!!! 🎂” alongside two touching photos. One showed Haley and Hope sitting on Schiffman’s lap, while the second captured the family of four around Schiffman’s birthday cake. 
Fans flooded the post with birthday wishes. Deborah Roberts, married to Kotb’s Today colleague Al Roker, wrote, “Happy birthday Joel! 🎊🎉,” while others praised the couple’s dedication to co-parenting. Comments included, “I am so happy that you remained friends through it all and that he is so present in the girls’ lives 🥰,” and “Love the way your family celebrates each other. Wonderful mom and dad for those girls!!!”
Kotb and Schiffman often reunite for major family celebrations. In December 2025, Schiffman joined Kotb and their children for Christmas festivities with Kotb’s sister and mother. Kotb shared photos of the group in matching holiday pajamas and miniature Santa hats, captioning them, “Merry Christmas 🎄❤️.”
Speaking about her past relationship during a September 2025 Today episode promoting her book Jump and Find Joy, Kotb reflected on her personal growth. She told Savannah Guthrie, “I went to this retreat and had an epiphany about my life. You can love someone — I loved him very much, and still do to this day — but that person isn’t right for you in that moment.”
Through it all, Kotb and Schiffman continue to set an example of grace, love, and collaboration in co-parenting, showing that family bonds can endure beyond romantic relationships.
Source: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/
