Hoda Kotb has shared a heartfelt tribute to her ex-fiancé Joel Schiffman on his 68th birthday, praising him as the “best dad” nearly five years after their 2021 split. The former Today show host, 61, posted a carousel of photos on Instagram on Sunday, March 22, marking the special day for Schiffman, the father of their two daughters, Hope, 6, and Haley, 9.
The tribute included a touching photo of Schiffman, all smiles as he sat with his daughters, enjoying a birthday meal together. In the background, a hand-written card read, “I love you so much.” Another image captured the ex-couple celebrating together, surrounded by unicorn-themed decorations as they cut a cake topped with white frosting and blue sprinkles.
In her caption, Kotb wrote: “Happy bday to the best DAD!!!”
Fans flooded the comments with praise for the exes’ co-parenting dynamic, with one fan commenting, “What a beautiful family ✨💘” and another writing, “What a beautiful family you and Joel. Many blessings always.” A third admirer added, “I am so happy that you remained friends through it all and that he is so present in the girls’ lives. It takes a really special bond for that to work.”
Kotb and Schiffman have maintained a strong friendship and co-parenting relationship after their split, which has been celebrated by fans for its positivity and support for their daughters.
