In an emotional revelation, Hoda Kotb announced her departure from NBC’s “Today” show to spend more time with her daughters and to pursue her new wellness venture, Joy 101. Her exit left co-host Jenna Bush Hager in shock, prompting a heartfelt conversation with her parents, George W. Bush and Laura Bush, as she navigated the unexpected change at the network.
Kotb, who left her position in January 2025, sparked considerable anticipation and curiosity regarding her replacement. Throughout a thorough selection process, Bush Hager welcomed various guest hosts, including celebrities like Scarlett Johansson and Dwyane Wade. However, it was Sheinelle Jones, a seasoned journalist and familiar face from “Weekend Today,” who emerged as the ideal choice.
Bush Hager expressed her excitement about the new dynamic Jones will bring to “Today with Jenna & Friends.” She praised Jones’s extensive experience and emotional openness, highlighting the importance of authenticity in their partnership. “She has the most open heart,” Bush Hager remarked, emphasizing her desire for a co-host willing to share their true selves with the audience.
Both hosts are eager for the upcoming changes and the unique synergy they will create on the show. “It just happens,” Jones noted about their on-air chemistry, while Bush Hager asserted the show’s format would organically evolve with Jones’s addition.
Jones, who faced personal tragedy with the loss of her husband in 2025, expressed her determination to use her experiences to connect with viewers. She described feeling as though she has earned her “stripes for life” through her struggles, intending to share her journey to uplift others and reinforce the message that despite life’s challenges, new opportunities and friendships await.
As Bush Hager and Jones prepare to embark on this new chapter together, they exemplify resilience and hope. Their commitment to authenticity and shared experiences promises to bring a fresh and engaging perspective to the daytime audience.