Jenna Bush Hager Reveals Permanent Co-host for ‘Jenna & Friends’

Jenna Bush Hager has announced that Sheinelle Jones will serve as her permanent co-host for the fourth hour of Today, beginning January 12. This decision follows a year filled with rotating guest co-hosts after Hoda Kotb’s departure from the show.

Sheinelle Jones Joins Jenna Bush Hager

Sheinelle Jones, a familiar face on Today since 2014, will leave her position as a co-host of the show’s third hour. Jones officially joined the fourth hour, now titled Today With Jenna & Sheinelle, after a series of guest appearances in the slot.

A Transition Period

The announcement was made during the NBC morning show’s 8 a.m. hour on December 9. During this segment, Bush Hager expressed her excitement, stating, “After 60 co-hosts, I’ve found my forever friend.” Savannah Guthrie, another co-anchor, referred to the news as a “very well-kept secret.”

Two hours later, Bush Hager confirmed that Jones would be her co-host during the Tuesday episode of Jenna & Friends. This marks a major shift in the show’s dynamics as they head into a new chapter together.

Background on Sheinelle Jones

• Return to Today: Jones made her comeback to the show in September after taking a leave of absence due to personal matters, including the loss of her husband, Uche Ojeh, who passed away at 45 from brain cancer.
• Family: The couple shared three children: son Kayin, 16, and twins Clara and Uche Jr., 13.

Jenna & Friends Expansion

The series, originally known as Today With Jenna, has evolved significantly. With Jones onboard, viewers can expect a fresh approach as the focus shifts toward a more stable co-hosting dynamic. Craig Melvin, Al Roker, and Dylan Dreyer will continue leading the third hour of Today.

Jenna Bush Hager previously noted that there was no rush to appoint a permanent co-host. She enjoyed the flexibility the guest-hosting format provided and expressed curiosity about future developments in the show’s structure.

Looking Ahead

As the show transitions into this new phase, Jenna With Jenna & Sheinelle promises exciting content for viewers. The show will air weekdays at 10 a.m./9c on NBC, offering a mix of engaging discussions and heartfelt moments led by the duo.