Who was A.K. Kotb? Everything About Hoda Kotb’s Beloved Father

Have you ever wondered who inspired Hoda Kotb, the warm and cheerful co-host of the Today show? Behind her success and kind personality is the strong influence of her late father, A.K. Kotb. He was not just a father but also a man who lived an inspiring life full of love, hard work, and dedication. Even though he passed away many years ago, Hoda and her family still remember him with deep love and respect.

In this article, we will take a closer look at A.K. Kotb’s life — his early years in Egypt, his career in the United States, his family, and the incredible impact he left on his children. Hoda often talks about how her father’s values shaped her, and through her stories, we can see how much he meant to her.

A.K. Kotb Quick Bio

Who Was A.K. Kotb?

A.K. Kotb’s full name was Abdel Kader Kotb, but most people simply called him A.K. He was born on May 29, 1932, in Cairo, Egypt, a city filled with history, culture, and energy. Growing up, A.K. was known as a kind and thoughtful man, someone who believed in honesty, hard work, and family.

Although he was not a public figure like his daughter Hoda, A.K. Kotb’s life was full of achievements. He became a Fossil Energy Specialist and worked for the U.S. Department of Energy in Washington, D.C. His name was even listed in the respected book “Who’s Who in Technology” (Volume 4, 1986), showing how highly he was regarded in his field.

A.K. Kotb’s Early Life in Egypt

A.K. Kotb’s story begins in Egypt, where he was born and raised. Cairo, with its busy streets and strong traditions, shaped the young man he became. From an early age, A.K. showed interest in studies, especially in fields related to engineering and energy. It was clear he wanted to build a career that made a difference.

In those days, many talented Egyptians dreamed of pursuing careers that combined technical skills with opportunities abroad. A.K. was one of them. He believed education was the key to success, and this belief stayed with him throughout his life.

Moving to the United States

Like many ambitious young professionals of his time, A.K. Kotb moved to the United States to build a better future. It was not an easy journey. Moving to a new country, learning new ways of life, and starting a career from scratch require a lot of courage. But A.K. had both courage and determination.

He eventually settled in Washington, D.C., where he started working as a Fossil Energy Specialist. His work required deep technical knowledge, and he was trusted to handle important energy-related projects. Despite his busy career, A.K. remained a family man who always found time for his loved ones.

His Career and Achievements

A.K. Kotb was not just another employee in his field. He was known for his expertise in fossil energy and petroleum. Working at the U.S. Department of Energy, he made valuable contributions to energy programs and research. His name being featured in “Who’s Who in Technology” was proof of his hard work and professional respect.

He was also known to have been involved in international petroleum consulting. A.K.’s knowledge of energy and technology took him beyond the U.S., helping companies and projects in other parts of the world. These achievements showed how talented and dedicated he was in his field.

A Loving Husband and Father

Behind his successful career, A.K. Kotb was also a loving husband and father. He was married to Sameha Kotb, often called Sami by family and friends. The couple shared a strong bond and raised three children together: Hoda Kotb, Adel Kotb, and Hala Kotb.

A.K. was a family-first kind of man. No matter how busy he was with work, he always put his family’s happiness above everything else. Hoda often describes her father as a kind and sweet man who encouraged his children to dream big. He believed in giving them both love and valuable life lessons.

Meet the Kotb Children

A.K. Kotb’s children have always spoken proudly of their father. His eldest daughter, Hoda Kotb, has become one of the most loved TV personalities in America. She often shares touching stories about her dad on the Today show and social media.

Then there is Adel Kotb, Hoda’s brother, who is known for being protective and caring. A touching story Hoda once shared is about running the Boston Marathon. When she was close to giving up during the last miles, Adel jumped in and ran beside her to keep her going. That kind of support shows the close bond A.K.’s children share.

The youngest sibling, Hala Kotb, also has a strong relationship with her family. Hoda often posts pictures with Hala, calling her “the best aunt and an even better sister.” This closeness among the siblings is a reflection of the strong family values A.K. and Sameha built for them.

How A.K. Kotb Died

Sadly, A.K. Kotb’s life was cut short by a heart attack in 1985 when he was just 51 years old. At that time, Hoda was still in college at Virginia Tech, and his sudden passing was a huge shock to the whole family. Hoda has shared that she was at a sorority event when her brother Adel ran in and told her the heartbreaking news: “Dad had a heart attack, and he died.”

That moment changed everything for Hoda and her siblings. They went to Adel’s dorm room, lay on his bed, and listened to James Taylor songs over and over, trying to process the loss. Even years later, Hoda recalls that night with tears in her eyes, remembering the pain of losing her father so suddenly.

Hoda Kotb’s Tributes to Her Father

Even though decades have passed since A.K.’s death, Hoda Kotb continues to honor her father in many ways. Every Father’s Day, she posts pictures of him on Instagram, sharing heartfelt messages like “Happy Father’s Day, Dad” or “Here’s to the dads in heaven.” These small but emotional gestures show how much she still misses him.

Hoda has also said that her father’s early passing made her more determined in life. She often thinks about what he would say if he saw her success today. In interviews, she has shared that she always wanted to hear a proud “attagirl” from her dad. That longing pushed her to climb higher in her career, and in many ways, his memory continues to drive her.

The Emotional Bracelet Story

One of the most touching stories about A.K. Kotb came years after his death. In 2018, a woman named Diane, who had worked as A.K.’s secretary 46 years earlier, appeared at the Today show plaza with a sign saying, “Hoda, ask me about the bracelet.”

When Hoda spoke to her, Diane revealed that A.K. had once given her a silver bracelet as a gift after visiting Egypt. She wanted Hoda to have it now and pass it down to her own daughters one day. The timing was incredible — this happened just one day after A.K.’s birthday.

Hoda was so emotional that she cried in her office after receiving the bracelet. She later shared that this gift felt like a message from her father, almost as if he was still watching over her.

How A.K. Kotb Inspired His Children

A.K. Kotb was not just a father; he was a guide and a role model. His hard work, kindness, and belief in education left a deep mark on his children. Hoda often talks about how her dad taught her the importance of never giving up. He believed that success comes when you stay humble and keep moving forward, even when life gets tough.

Hoda says she always wanted to make her father proud. She calls it wanting that “attagirl” moment, where her dad would look at her and say, “You did it.” Even though he passed away before seeing her rise as a famous journalist, Hoda feels his presence in every success she achieves. She believes her dad’s voice still guides her, pushing her to do her best.

His lessons also shaped her brother Adel and sister Hala. Adel’s support during Hoda’s Boston Marathon run is just one example of the values their father taught them. That bond of standing together, no matter what, comes directly from A.K. Kotb’s influence as a caring father.

The Close Bond Between the Kotb Siblings

A.K. Kotb’s biggest gift to his children was the love they share for each other. Hoda, Adel, and Hala are not just siblings; they are each other’s strongest supporters. After their father’s death, they leaned on each other to heal and move forward. Their closeness is something Hoda often shares with her fans.

Hoda loves to post pictures of her family on Instagram. On Hala’s birthday, she called her “the best aunt and an even better sister.” For Adel’s birthday, she shared warm family moments that showed how much they enjoy spending time together. These little things show how A.K.’s love still lives in their hearts.

When you see the Kotb siblings together, you can feel the strength of their bond. They celebrate holidays, birthdays, and even simple moments with joy. This strong connection is proof that A.K. Kotb’s values continue to bring them closer, even decades after his passing.

A.K. Kotb’s Legacy Today

Although A.K. Kotb is no longer here, his story and spirit live on through Hoda and her family. Every Father’s Day, Hoda posts old pictures of her dad, remembering the happy moments they shared. In 2023, she shared how she told her children about their grandfather, keeping his memory alive for the next generation.

A.K. Kotb’s life was not just about his work as a fossil energy specialist. It was about being a loving husband, a dedicated father, and a kind-hearted man. He came from Egypt to the United States, built a career, and raised a family that continues to honor his name. Even Hoda’s success on the Today show feels like part of his legacy, because she carries his values and warmth with her every day.

The emotional story of Diane, his former secretary, returning the bracelet he once gifted her shows how much he touched the lives of people around him. He wasn’t just remembered by his family but also by those who worked with him. That kind of memory is rare and special.

How His Death Changed Hoda Kotb’s Life

Losing her father while still in college was one of the hardest moments of Hoda’s life. She has often said that it left her with “unfinished business.” Without her dad around to say, “I’m proud of you,” Hoda pushed herself harder in her career. She wanted to reach a place where she knew he would be smiling down on her.

Hoda believes this difficult experience made her stronger. It shaped her into the woman she is today — someone who values family, success, and compassion. Even during her battles with breast cancer and personal challenges, Hoda found strength in her father’s memory. She often says that the seeds of wisdom he planted in her are still guiding her today.

A Father’s Influence on Hoda as a Mother

Becoming a mother herself was a big step for Hoda, and she often thinks of her father during these moments. She has two daughters, Haley and Hope, and she tries to raise them with the same love and values A.K. Kotb gave to her. When she talks about teaching her daughters kindness and gratitude, she is passing on lessons from her father.

The bracelet story is also a part of this. Hoda promised that one day she would give the bracelet from Diane to her daughter Haley. This act shows how A.K. Kotb’s love is still passed from one generation to the next, even years after his passing.

Remembering A.K. Kotb

A.K. Kotb is remembered as a man who was both accomplished and kind. He built a career that earned respect, but more importantly, he built a family filled with love and warmth. Hoda often says that her father led by example — he worked hard, treated people with kindness, and believed in doing the right thing.

Even in 2025, people who love Hoda Kotb also want to know about the man who raised her. A.K. Kotb’s story reminds us how a parent’s influence can last a lifetime. Through his children’s achievements, family traditions, and stories, his name continues to live on.

Final Thoughts

A.K. Kotb’s life is a story of love, hard work, and inspiration. From his early days in Cairo to his career in the United States, he showed what it means to live with purpose and kindness. His sudden passing was heartbreaking, but the lessons he left behind became the foundation for Hoda Kotb’s success and strength.

Hoda’s warm tributes, family memories, and the emotional bracelet story prove that A.K. Kotb is never forgotten. He continues to inspire not only his family but also those who hear his story. Even though he is no longer here, his spirit and values remain alive through the love and success of his children.

(FAQs)

Who are Hoda Kotb’s parents?

Hoda Kotb’s parents are A.K. Kotb and Sameha (Sami) Kotb, who moved from Egypt to the United States to build a better life.

What caused A.K. Kotb’s death?

A.K. Kotb died suddenly from a heart attack in 1985, leaving Hoda devastated while she was still in college.

How old was A.K. Kotb when he died?

He was only 51 years old when he passed away, which shocked his family and friends.

What was A.K. Kotb’s profession and net worth?

A.K. Kotb was a Fossil Energy Specialist at the U.S. Department of Energy and a co-author of Who’s Who in Technology. His exact net worth is unknown, but it is believed to have been significant due to his career.

How many children did A.K. Kotb have?

A.K. Kotb had three children: Hoda Kotb, Adel Kotb, and Hala Kotb, all of whom remain very close.

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