The gravity and emotion of the coronavirus pandemic came through on national television Friday morning.
Hoda Kotb, co-anchor of “Today” on NBC, was overcome with emotion after talking with New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees about a $5 million donation he made to Louisiana to help feed its residents.
“I also think a lot of things are contagious, including generosity,” Kotb said as she prepared to sign off the interview. “Our hope is that you let us know you made this big generous donation, I think other people look and say, ‘Maybe i can help out, too.’ Drew, we love ya.”
“Love you, too, Hoda. Thank you,” Brees replied.
As she prepared to tease into the next segment, Kotb, who is anchoring solo in the studio while co-anchor Savannah Guthrie joins via video from home, could not gather her emotions.
We love you, Hoda. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/rocZr8J4EE
— TODAY (@TODAYshow) March 27, 2020
Kotb was an anchor and reporter for a CBS affiliate in New Orleans from 1992-98.
The Louisiana Department of Health on Thursday was reporting 83 coronavirus-related deaths. More than 2,300 cases had been logged.
