Hoda Kotb, cohost of Today With Hoda & Jenna, shared a humorous yet painful story on the April 23 episode of the show, revealing the reason behind her unexpected choice of tennis shoes. Kotb, 59, explained that the decision was a result of an injury she sustained while riding the New York City subway.
A Subway Incident Leads to an Unexpected Shoe Choice
At the start of the show, Jenna Bush Hager noticed Kotb’s choice of shoes, which deviated from her usual style, and asked her about it. Kotb quickly explained that the reason was a recent “incident” on the subway. “I ran to another subway car and jammed my toe so hard,” Kotb shared, recalling how she was caught up in the excitement and adrenaline of the moment, leading to the painful mishap.
Despite the pain, Kotb assured viewers that her toe was doing much better by the time she appeared on the show. “My toe is fine now,” she said, explaining that the advice she had received to tape it up had helped with the recovery. However, the real story came when Kotb revealed how she ended up using Scotch tape, of all things, to wrap her toe.
The Comedic Aftermath: Scotch Tape and a First Aid Kit Hunt
Jenna Bush Hager couldn’t help but laugh and was shocked by the revelation. “No! You Scotch-taped your toe?” she asked incredulously. Kotb explained that after searching her home for medical supplies, the only thing she could find was Scotch tape—nothing remotely close to actual first aid tape. “I know we have a first aid kit. It was nowhere to be found,” Kotb admitted. “My kids have all this colored tape, but I couldn’t find one roll. The only tape left was that old Christmas tape!”
Despite the unconventional remedy, Kotb kept her sense of humor and took the situation in stride. She even Googled the proper technique for taping a toe, only to realize she had used the wrong kind of tape. However, the episode ended on a lighthearted note, with Kotb laughing through her discomfort and reminding viewers to always make sure they have the right medical supplies on hand.
Sheinelle Jones Joins the Injured Club
Kotb’s foot mishap wasn’t the only injury making headlines on Today. Her cohost, Sheinelle Jones, had a similar incident earlier in the month when she tripped and fell in New York City. Jones, 46, humorously shared the embarrassing moment on Instagram, explaining that she was running errands when she tripped and fell flat on her face. Despite the bruising, Jones maintained her lightheartedness, poking fun at her clumsiness and offering a relatable glimpse into her everyday life.
A Lighthearted Bond and Relatable Moments
Hoda Kotb and Jenna Bush Hager have built a strong, relatable bond as cohosts of Today With Hoda & Jenna, celebrated for their genuine personalities and deep connection with viewers. Kotb, a mother of two daughters, Haley and Hope, often shares anecdotes from her personal life, making her injury story a reminder that even celebrities face everyday challenges—though they manage to find humor in them.
In the midst of Kotb’s funny foot injury tale, fans continue to appreciate the authenticity and humor she brings to the show, making Today a go-to morning show for both entertainment and inspiration.
