Jenna Bush Hager Announces New ‘Today’ CoHost After Hoda Kotb’s Exit: ‘I Knew I Was Going to Cry’

After months of testing out dozens of potential cohosts, Jenna Bush Hager tearfully revealed that she has finally decided on a permanent replacement for Hoda Kotb. Starting on January 12, 2026, Sheinelle Jones will join Bush Hager every episode for the fourth hour of the newly named Today with Jenna & Sheinelle.

“You all know her, she’s an extraordinary broadcaster, but more importantly, she exemplifies exactly what this show is all about,” Bush Hager, 44, said Tuesday while announcing Jones’ new position.

The decision comes after a rotation of 60 people, including musicians, actors, media personalities and more, sat in on Jenna & Friends as the longtime host tried to find her forever match in the wake of Kotb’s departure last January. Jones, 47, was one of the people in that rotation, joining Bush in September as a guest host.

“To have a show like this is beyond my wildest dreams,” Jones said after the announcement. “This is the real deal, and I get to do it with Jenna.”

According to Today, Jones will step away from her role in the third hour of the show to focus on Today with Jenna & Sheinelle. Meanwhile, Craig Melvin, Al Roker and Dylan Dreyer will remain cohosts of the 9 a.m. hour.

“This marks an exciting new chapter for the fourth hour,” Today executive vice president Libby Leist and Jenna & Friends executive producer Talia Parkinson-Jones said in a statement. “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 has been a cherished member of NBC News for more than 11 years,” they added. “From standout interviews with newsmakers and celebrities to her iconic Halloween performances as Beyoncé and Tina Turner, she has captivated audiences time and again.”