The premiere of “Today with Jenna & Sheinelle” marked an emotional beginning as Sheinelle Jones officially joined Jenna Bush Hager as her co-host. The debut featured heartfelt moments, including an emotional tribute from Jones about her late husband, setting a touching tone for the show.
As the two hosts embraced their new partnership, they were pleasantly surprised when former hosts Hoda Kotb and Kathie Lee Gifford made a special appearance. The nostalgic moment included Kotb and Gifford playfully introducing the new duo with a dramatic “passing of the torch,” complete with a humorous touch involving a wine glass-shaped torch that added to the celebratory vibe.
Kotb and Gifford expressed their excitement for the new hosting pair, with Kotb praising their chemistry on air. “You all look so sweet together,” she remarked. Jones shared her admiration for Gifford, recalling how she once saw Gifford as a trailblazer in the industry and reflected on their shared journey.
Throughout the show, the camaraderie among the hosts was evident, as they exchanged stories and memorable moments from their careers. Gifford humorously made remarks about their past, while Kotb acknowledged the supportive lineage of women in the “Today” franchise.
In a light-hearted nod to their history with wine, Kotb made a toast to “fun” and “sisterhood,” while Gifford joked about the unexpected delivery of wine glasses and a bottle of rosé from her own brand, GIFFT, enhancing the celebratory atmosphere.
Jones, previously a co-host on the “3rd Hour of Today,” was appointed as the permanent co-host for this new hour after her stint as a guest host with Hager over the months. The new show aims to continue the legacy established by Kotb and Gifford while fostering a warm and inviting space for viewers.
The debut of “Today with Jenna & Sheinelle” showcases a heartfelt transition in daytime television, where new beginnings meet cherished traditions, leaving fans eager to see the unique dynamic unfold in the weeks to come.