Hoda Kotb, co-host of the Today show, became emotional during a touching segment with Jennifer Garner and her mother, Patricia English Garner, on Monday, June 24. The heartfelt conversation centered around the recent loss of Patricia’s husband and Jennifer’s father, William Garner.
Hoda, 59, was visibly moved as she spoke with Patricia, 86, about coping with the loss of her husband. “Another thing we admire about you is your husband passed a little bit ago, and I can only imagine how hard it was to get out of bed, to just start another day, but one day you just decided, ‘Today’s the day,’” Hoda said, wiping away tears.
Patricia responded with grace, explaining her decision to carry on. “Well, I pretty much decided anyway, before, that I would be all right. I was so worried about being a widow and then one day I had an epiphany, ‘You will be alright,’” she said. “And I really have been alright. Now, I miss him and I so wanted to tell him I was gonna be on the Today show.”
Jennifer Garner, also emotional, shared fond memories of her late father. “He loved how much people love you, so he would be right there smiling,” she reflected. Jennifer had first announced her father’s passing on social media in April, with a heartfelt tribute that resonated with many.
“My dad passed peacefully Saturday afternoon. We were with him, singing Amazing Grace as he left us… While there is no tragedy in the death of an 85-year-old man who lived a healthy, wonderful life, I know grief is unavoidable, waiting around unexpected corners,” Jennifer wrote. She expressed deep gratitude for her father’s gentle demeanor, quiet strength, and loving presence in their lives.
During the Today segment, Hoda praised Jennifer for her poignant social media post about her father’s passing. Jennifer, in turn, acknowledged her parents’ profound influence, particularly her mother’s kindness and resilience.
“I mean, I have a pretty special mom,” Jennifer said. “My mom is not judgmental of people or of things or if things are happening to you. She is just kind of gifted at giving to people and seeing what people need and just quietly taking care of them.” Patricia added, “I do not. Guilt is a useless emotion,” highlighting her philosophy on life.
The segment ended on a note of mutual admiration and respect, with Hoda, Jennifer, and Patricia sharing a bond over their experiences with loss and love.
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