Hoda Kotb’s decision to step away from Today earlier this year marked the end of an era for NBC’s morning lineup.
According to USA Today, after more than a decade with the show—and years anchoring alongside Jenna Bush Hager in the fourth hour—Kotb signed off in January, calling the move a personal one rather than a professional gamble.
For nearly a year, Bush Hager held down the hour—temporarily renamed Jenna & Friends—with a rotating lineup of guest co-hosts. That run included actors, comedians, musicians, athletes, family members, and fellow NBC talent.
Now, that revolving door has officially closed.
NBC confirmed on Tuesday, December 9, that veteran journalist Sheinelle Jones will take over as Bush Hager’s permanent co-anchor when the newly titled Today with Jenna and Sheinelle premieres on January 12, 2026.
Jones is already a familiar face to Today viewers. The longtime journalist has been a co-host on the 3rd Hour of Today, appearing regularly alongside Al Roker, Dylan Dreyer, and Craig Melvin.
Known for her warm on-air presence and experience across live news and feature programming, Jones steps into the role after a deeply personal year.
During the Today announcement, Bush Hager became emotional while introducing Jones, calling her an “extraordinary broadcaster” and someone who embodies the show's spirit, while also dubbing her a new "forever friend."
Jones later joined her at the desk and spoke candidly about returning to television after taking time away following the death of her husband, Uche Ojeh, who died in May after battling brain cancer.
Reflecting on the moment, Jones described the timing as meaningful. “When I came back from leave, I talked about fighting for my joy,” she said. “This is what it looks like. It feels divine.” She also shared that telling her children about the new role brought much-needed happiness to their home.