‘Today’s Hoda Kotb, Savannah Guthrie and More Seen in Emotional Backstage Footage

TODAY -- Pictured: Savannah Guthrie and Hoda Kotb on Wednesday, January 10, 2024 -- (Photo by: Nathan Congleton/NBC via Getty Images)

Fans of the Today show are loving new emotional backstage footage showing a recent interaction between the show’s hosts and one dedicated viewer.

The viewer, identified as Denise from Florida, was in New York City for a doctor’s appointment before she decided to head over to the Today studio to join the crowd that gathers outside before each show. It was while she was in the city that she learned she beat cancer, according to a Feb. 6 Instagram video shared by Today.

The behind-the-scenes video began with Denise pictured in the crowd outside the studio. Denise is seen wearing a bright pink hat and holding a sign that reads, “Cancer free as of…TODAY,” along with a hand-drawn version of the show’s logo.

The video then cuts to Denise, who watches Today “every morning,” after she is invited inside to meet the hosts. Denise first greeted Hota Kotb, who squealed with excitement and offered her a big hug. As Denise showed off her sign, Kotb clapped alongside her cohosts in front of the hosts’ desk. Carson Daly, Savannah Guthrie and Al Roker are then seen hugging Denise and applauding as they join in celebrating her big news.

The post drew an emotional reaction from fans, some of whom shared their own battles with cancer as others explained that it was moments like these that made them loyal viewers.

“I’m finishing radiation this week,” one fan commented, writing that they have been through "a brutal year of treatments and surgeries.”

“I know what a lovely feeling it is to be cancer free,” they added.

“So many of these moments throughout the years,” another fan reflected before adding a double heart emoji and writing that they “love” when the show allows fans to "see what goes on behind the scenes.”

“How wonderful to bring her up and help her celebrate!” another Instagram user said.

“THIS is why I watch!” one fan said. “So authentic.”

Others left comments specifically to congratulate Denise on her happy news.

"Thrilled for your news, Denise!” one Today fan wrote. “Lovely people to share it with!!”

“Denise- congratulations! I’m sure your journey was difficult, but your smile lit up that space,” wrote another.

Next: Hoda Kotb Opens Up About Impact of Breast Cancer Diagnosis on Her Career