NEW YORK – Jenna Bush Hager announced on December 9 that Sheinelle Jones will officially join her as co-host of the newly renamed TODAY with Jenna & Sheinelle. Sheinelle, 47, will step into her permanent role on January 12, marking the first time the fourth hour has had a permanent co-host since Hoda Kotb’s departure. She will leave the third hour of TODAY to begin her new position, while Craig Melvin, Al Roker, and Dylan Dreyer continue as co-hosts of the 9 a.m. hour.
During the announcement, Jenna praised Sheinelle, calling her “an extraordinary broadcaster” who embodies the spirit of the show. Sheinelle expressed her excitement about the new role, saying it was “beyond my wildest dreams” to co-host alongside Jenna. The moment was emotional, with the two sharing a heartfelt hug on air. Executive producers and executives celebrated Sheinelle’s addition, noting her 11-year tenure with NBC News and her ability to connect with audiences through interviews, performances, and her engaging personality.
Sheinelle first guest co-hosted with Jenna in September, just weeks after returning to work following the death of her husband, Uche Ojeh, from brain cancer. During that appearance, she shared how returning to work marked a “new normal” after her loss, and Jenna surprised her with a reunion with six close friends who had supported her through the grieving process.
Since the debut of TODAY with Jenna & Friends, the fourth hour has featured 60 guest co-hosts and special appearances, including Michelle Obama, Taraji P. Henson, Ciara, John Legend, Sheryl Crow, Cardi B, and Scarlett Johansson, as well as comedians and actors from Saturday Night Live and beyond. Jenna and Sheinelle’s partnership continues a legacy of engaging, heartfelt, and often humorous programming for the fourth hour, celebrating both high-profile guests and personal stories.