Jenna Bush Hager’s Tearful Farewell to a Beloved Today Show Star

The Today Show studio was steeped in emotion as Jenna Bush Hager bid a heartfelt farewell to a beloved colleague, Donna Farizan, whose departure from Today with Jenna & Friends marked the end of a 12-year journey with NBC. On September 8, 2025, during a poignant on-air moment, Jenna struggled to hold back tears as she honored her friend, a regular contributor whose warmth and creativity had lit up the show’s fourth hour. The emotional send-off, coupled with Jenna’s touching words, resonated deeply with viewers, who flooded social media with messages of sadness and admiration for Farizan’s next chapter.

Farizan, who began her career at NBC as an intern, announced her exit with a reflective statement that captured her bold leap into the unknown. “A year ago, I launched a series called Own Your Power, where I challenged myself to speak my truth,” she said. “Now, after 12 years with TODAY, I’m challenging myself to spread my wings beyond the show to see what new and exciting opportunities await me professionally.” Her decision came on the heels of Hoda Kotb’s departure in January 2025, which had already reshaped the fourth hour, now hosted by Jenna with a rotating cast of guest co-hosts. Farizan’s exit added another layer of change to the show’s evolving dynamic.

Jenna, visibly moved, shared her sentiments on Instagram, posting photos of their final moments together on set. “Today we say goodbye to our incredible friend, Donna,” she wrote. “She’s brought us joy, heart, and unforgettable stories. Wishing her nothing but success and love on her next chapter.” The images captured the pair’s genuine bond, their smiles tinged with bittersweet emotion as they embraced for the camera. Savannah Guthrie, a fellow Today anchor, commented, “We love you,” echoing the studio’s collective affection for Farizan.

In a prerecorded segment aired on the show, Farizan read a letter to herself, published on the Today website, reflecting on her transformative journey. “The unknown can be scary, but it’s also exhilarating, so let’s embrace it,” she said. “I created a path that taught me lessons that expanded my growth as a human being.” Farizan highlighted her contributions to the show, from pioneering new storytelling mediums to forging connections with viewers and colleagues. “Success is a team sport, and this is the team I’ve built,” she added, inviting fans to follow her journey on social media as she continues to “bring both light and depth.”

The outpouring of support from viewers was immediate. One fan wrote on Instagram, “Good for her! When Hoda left, she was ready to fill her spot, and they didn’t even pretend to consider her. I love Donna and I’m rooting for her.” Another shared, “You have a heart of gold, Donna! One of my favorite memories interning at TODAY was being inspired by YOU!” These reactions underscored Farizan’s impact, both on the show and within the Today community, where her creativity and warmth left an indelible mark.

Jenna’s emotional response reflected the personal toll of Farizan’s departure, especially amid the show’s ongoing transition post-Kotb. As Today with Jenna & Friends continues to evolve, Farizan’s exit serves as a reminder of the human connections that define the program. Her courage to embrace the unknown, coupled with Jenna’s tearful farewell, struck a chord with viewers, who joined in celebrating her legacy while mourning her absence. Farizan’s next chapter remains unwritten, but her heartfelt send-off ensures she leaves with the love and admiration of colleagues and fans alike, ready to soar into new horizons.