In an interview with New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees this morning, veteran television reporter and Today favorite Hoda Kotb was moved to tears over the COVID-19 crisis in Louisiana.
Kotb, who worked at WWL-TV in New Orleans for six years in the ’90s, spoke with Brees about his $5 million donation to Louisiana to aide in the battle against the novel coronavirus, and the frightening impact it has had on the state.
“There’s so many people in need right now. Obviously, the state of Louisiana thrives on small businesses, and we’re a hospitality state. So many people have been affected by this around the country but especially in New Orleans,” Brees, 41, said.
“So, when Brittany [his wife] and I think about New Orleans and people’s just basic needs, that is to make sure they and their family are fed and that they continue to sustain,” the Super Bowl winner continued. “That was where we wanted to start…We all have to come together and help one another and make sure that we get through this together.”
He went on to compare the current situation with what he witnessed in New Orleans post-Hurricane Katrina.
Then, speaking directly to New Orleans residents, he offered some inspiring words. “Hang in there and maintain hope,” Brees said. “Obviously, we’ve been through a lot of tough times together. Whether it’s hurricanes, oil spills, floods, and this is just another one of those bits of adversity that we’re going to come out better on the other side.”
After swapping “I love you’s,” Kotb broke down in tears.
A few painful moments later, the 55-year-old apologized to the audience, still visibly choked up. That’s when her co-anchor and friend Savannah Guthrie chimed in and took over for the next segment.
“I know where your heart is, my dear, I do,” Guthrie he told her.
