Hey there, friends! If you're a fan of the "Today" show, you might have heard that Jenna Bush Hager is about to get a new cohost for the fourth hour of the show. Right now, she's cohosting alongside the beloved Hoda Kotb, but things are about to change. And guess what? The process of finding the perfect person to join Jenna is a pretty big deal. Producers are being super careful, making sure morale stays high and ratings don't take a dive.
Let me break it down for you. An insider told Closer that Jenna's input is crucial in this hiring process. They want her to stick around for the long haul, so they're giving her a say in who they hire. But at the end of the day, it's all about the viewers. That's why they're testing out different cohosts to see who has the best chemistry with Jenna and who can bring in the ratings. This is a big decision, and they want to get it right!
Who Are the Top Contenders?
Now, let's talk about the contenders. According to the source, there are a few names that keep popping up. First up, we have the charismatic Willie Geist. Jenna and Willie have a great rapport, and fans seem to love him. He's got a proven track record, so he's definitely in the running. But that's not all—Michelle Buteau, known for her comedic talent, is also being considered. And don’t forget about Justin Sylvester and Michelle Collins, who have been mentioned as potential candidates too. It’s like a talent show, but for the morning TV world!
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Big Changes on the Horizon
Hoda Kotb, who has been a staple on the show, announced back in September that she'll be leaving "Today" in January 2025. That's a big shift, but the show is ready to adapt. Craig Melvin will step in as Savannah Guthrie’s coanchor for the early morning hours. Meanwhile, "Today With Hoda & Jenna" will be rebranded as "Today With Jenna & Friends," featuring rotating guest cohosts until Jenna finds her permanent partner. NBC is taking their time with this decision, but they also know they can't drag it out too long. They're walking a tightrope, balancing the need to keep fans engaged while ensuring the show stays fresh and exciting.
Jenna's Emotional Reaction
Jenna, who has been cohosting since 2019, was visibly emotional when Hoda shared the news about her departure. She expressed how special their bond is, saying, “What I get to sit next to you and feel is this, it's what's between us, and it is magical and powerful, and it feels like that here.” It's clear that Jenna values her time with Hoda and is navigating this transition with a mix of emotions.
Another insider shared with Closer that other candidates include Sheinelle Jones, who already cohosts during earlier hours of the show, E!’s Justin Sylvester, and actress-comedian Heather McMahan. The possibilities are endless, and it could be someone unexpected who shakes things up. Jenna will have some input, but ultimately, the big bosses will make the final call. For now, it's anyone's guess who will join Jenna on the show.
