The "Today" show has long been a morning staple, featuring beloved personalities like Jenna Bush Hager, Hoda Kotb, Savannah Guthrie, and others. In February 2023, viewers were understandably puzzled when they noticed some changes at the news desk, leading to questions about whether Jenna was still part of the show. Let me break it down for you—keep reading to get the full scoop on Jenna's status with "Today."
Is Jenna Bush Hager Still Hosting on 'Today'?
Jenna’s connection with "Today" dates back much further than her official role as a cohost, which she stepped into in 2019. She began her journey with NBC as a correspondent and contributor way back in 2009. When Kathie Lee Gifford announced her departure from the show in late 2018, Jenna naturally transitioned into her spot, bringing a fresh and relatable energy to the morning lineup.
Since then, Jenna has been a dynamic presence on the show, sharing her infectious laughter, love for literature, and personal stories about her family, including her dad, former President George W. Bush. Alongside her partner-in-crime Hoda Kotb, Jenna has created a bond that transcends the screen. They’ve shared everything from heartwarming moments to tearful ones, forming a friendship that viewers can’t help but admire.
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On February 24, 2023, Jenna was front and center at the news desk, but her longtime cohost Hoda Kotb was noticeably absent. This absence wasn’t a one-off; Hoda missed several episodes that followed, with other familiar faces like Craig Melvin, Willie Geist, and Sheinelle Jones stepping in to fill her spot. At the same time, Savannah Guthrie was also absent, leaving fans wondering what was going on behind the scenes.
On March 1, Jenna and her fellow cohosts addressed Hoda's absence, offering some clarity to concerned viewers. “We mentioned that Savannah and Hoda are both off. Savannah tested positive for COVID yesterday, and we’re sending her our best wishes for a speedy recovery,” Craig explained at the start of the episode. “As for Hoda, many of you have been asking about her. She’s okay, but she’s dealing with a family health matter. We’re looking forward to having both Hoda and Savannah back at the desk very soon.”
That same day, Jenna teamed up with Willie Geist to anchor "Today With Hoda & Jenna." “Willie is stepping in for Hoda today,” Jenna said during the program. “We want to let all of you know that Hoda is okay. She’s just handling a family health matter. We love her so much, and we’ll see her back here very soon.”
Is Jenna Bush Hager Planning to Leave 'Today'?
Jenna has never shied away from taking breaks to focus on her family, especially her kids—Mila, Poppy, and Hal—with her husband, Henry Hager. However, there’s no indication that she’s planning to leave "Today." In fact, just a day later, on March 2, Jenna celebrated a significant milestone on the show: the four-year anniversary of her book club, Read With Jenna.
“I want to take a moment to thank all of our readers and the incredible authors who have been part of this journey. You’ve truly changed my life, and I’m so grateful. There’s always room for more of you in this community,” Jenna expressed during a special segment filmed in front of a live audience at Rockefeller Plaza.
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