Hoda Kotb Breaks Down After Reporting on Coronavirus Impact with Drew Brees in New Orleans on 'Today' (Video)

Hoda Kotb broke down in tears this morning on Today.

One day after Drew Brees and wife Brittany announced their donation of $5 million to the state of Louisiana for COVID-19 relief, the New Orleans Saints quarterback called into the Today show on Friday (March 27) and chatted with Hoda, who worked at a news station in New Orleans for six years in the ’90s, about the impact the virus has had on the state.

“The state of Louisiana thrives on small businesses,” Drew, 41, said. “We’re a hospitality state, and so many people have been affected by this around the country but especially in New Orleans. So when Brittany and I think about one of New Orleans’ [residents’] basic needs, that is to make sure that they and their family are fed and they can continue to sustain. So that’s where we wanted to start.”

“a lot of things are contagious, including generosity. Our hope is that because you let us know you made this big, generous donation, I think other people look and say, ‘Hey, maybe I can help out, too,’” Hoda told Drew towards the end of the interview.

“Drew, we love ya,” Hoda Kotb finished up, pivoting to tell the audience there was “a lot more” ahead before she broke down in tears, overcome with emotion.

“I’m so sorry, Hon,” said co-host Savannah Guthrie, who has been hosting the show from home since last week. “Take a moment. It’s a lot.”