‘Today’ Jenna Bush Hager’s Permanent Co-Host Finally Revealed
It has been nearly a year since Hoda Kotb exited The Today Show and left Jenna Bush Hager on her own. There was no immediate replacement but rather a slew of fill-ins to see who fit best. Now, after much speculation, a new host has been named, but who is it? Keep reading for all of the exciting details and fan reactions on NBC’s choice.
Jenna Bush Hager’s Permanent Co-Host Finally Revealed
Hoda Kotb and Jenna Bush Hager made an incredible morning show team, especially after Kathie Lee Gifford departed. Kathie Lee and Hoda always had so much fun, then to get lightning in a bottle with Jenna was great luck. Yet, at the end of 2024, Hoda announced she was leaving Today and moving on by the beginning of 2025. No one knew who Jenna’s new co-host would be, but they knew Hoda could never be replaced. Ultimately, NBC opted to give Dallas, Texas native Jenna her own show with rotating hosts.
Viewers had their favorites, such as Scarlett Johansson, Andy Cohen, and Justin Sylvester. However, no one was ever named as the permanent sidekick, and that became frustrating. Finally, after nearly a year, Jenna has a brand new partner in crime. Beginning in January 2026, Sheinelle Jones will take a seat beside Jenna Bush Hager, and this could not be a more exciting announcement. Fans had long wanted her to be the new co-host, but were concerned she was not ready for that.
Sheinelle Jones to Join Jenna Bush Hager as Permanent Co-Host for TODAY’s Fourth Hour 💗
TODAY with Jenna & Sheinelle will debut in January. https://t.co/N22RfRmQv4
— TODAY with Jenna & Friends (@JennaAndFriends) December 9, 2025
Sheinelle had suffered a devastating loss when her husband, Uche Ojeh, passed away in May 2025. She had taken time away from Today to deal with personal matters. Yet, it was unclear if she would want to return to such a time-consuming position. Luckily, on Tuesday, December 9th, the big announcement was made regarding the new hostess. The show will now be titled TODAY with Jenna & Sheinelle, as noted in a statement:
“This marks an exciting new chapter for the fourth hour. Jenna and Sheinelle are two extraordinary talents who have grown within the ranks of TODAY. They are beloved for their authenticity, warmth and genuine connection with our TODAY audience.”
Sheinelle will no longer be a part of the third hour, yet this seems like a prime opportunity for her.
So Much Love For The New Duo
Today Show fans are thrilled with this coupling and the choice to add Sheinelle Jones. They feel that she and Jenna Bush Hager will be the perfect duo and will make the mornings even better. After the announcement was made, fans took to social media to share their thoughts and delight:
- A great choice! Can’t wait to watch this duo
- Why am I crying
- I was HOPING IT WOULD BE HER!!!!!!!
- Congrats Sheinelle! You strike me as genuine, authentic and likeable. You got this!!
It will be a great way to kick off the year, fun and fresh, with a new take. Moreover, viewers seem to really appreciate the choice that NBC has made, so no doubt ratings will soar. Hopefully, fans will look at the show with fresh eyes and not compare Sheinelle to Hoda Kotb.
Are you happy with this decision and that there will no longer be a Today rotation? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
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