Jenna Bush Hager is leading a fresh chapter of Today’s fourth hour, dismissing rumors about Scarlett Johansson joining her. Discover how she’s reshaping the show and who’s joining her on this exciting journey.
Jenna Bush Hager Takes the Lead on Today’s Fourth Hour
Jenna Bush Hager is stepping into the spotlight like never before, taking charge of the fourth hour of Today following Hoda Kotb’s emotional departure. After years of sharing the desk with her beloved co-host, Jenna is now navigating a new era — and she’s doing it on her own terms.
Read more:
- Jenna Bush Hager admitted feeling “angry” after Hoda Kotb’s departure from ‘Today’ due to how it impacted her mental well-being: “I receive threatening messages every day.”
- SURREAL Jenna made Hoda burst into laughter as she revealed how she got her husband to “shut up” when he found a gift suddenly sent to her by an ex, who said he missed her!
- Jenna Bush Hager revealed that former President George W. Bush gave her an 8-word piece of advice when she called him crying after learning that Hoda Kotb would be leaving “Today”: ‘Turns out he’s the one who made Hoda leave…’
With rumors swirling that actress Scarlett Johansson might fill the vacant seat beside her, Jenna quickly put the speculation to rest, firmly stating, “That’s not happening unless my father d!es.” This bold response made it clear: Jenna isn’t looking for a permanent replacement — at least not yet.
Instead, the show has been rebranded as Today With Jenna & Friends, featuring a rotating lineup of celebrity co-hosts. This fresh format gives Jenna the chance to shine while sharing the screen with a variety of dynamic personalities.
Hoda’s Heartfelt Send-Off
Hoda Kotb, who officially stepped away from the show on January 10, left behind a legacy of warmth and laughter. During her final week, she shared an emotional exchange with Jenna, praising her friend’s charisma and talent.
Read more:
- Jenna Bush Hager shared why Hoda’s second child, Hope, feels extra special to her—even more than her own daughter: ‘I even cried the first time I met her…’
- Hoda Kotb couldn’t stop Jenna Bush Hager in time as she finally revealed why she finds her husband “disgusting” and the truth that they haven’t shared a bed in a long time!
- NBC announced they signed another “special deal” with Hoda Kotb after she officially left Today: “She deserves to shine more than in that place.”
“Whoever sits in this seat is going to have the easiest job in the world ‘cause they’re sitting next to you,” Hoda told Jenna in a touching September 2024 episode. “You are this bright light, you always have been, and it’s your turn.”
Jenna, overwhelmed with emotion, responded with her usual humility: “If I’m bright, it’s because I’m sitting in your glow.”
The duo’s heartfelt farewell resonated with fans, many of whom took to social media to express their admiration for the pair’s undeniable chemistry. It’s clear that Jenna’s journey forward carries the spirit of their long-standing partnership, even as she forges a new path.
Jenna’s Star-Studded Guest Lineup
With Hoda’s departure, Jenna is embracing the opportunity to collaborate with a variety of guest hosts, each bringing their own unique flair to the show. During her final week, Hoda helped Jenna reveal the initial lineup, describing the first round of celebrity co-hosts as “heavy-hitter, homerun [and] wow.”
The rotating panel is designed to keep things fresh and exciting for viewers, giving Jenna a chance to explore different dynamics and on-screen chemistry. From beloved actors to iconic TV personalities, the guest lineup promises to keep audiences engaged and entertained.
The new format isn’t just about shaking things up — it’s also a chance for Jenna to define her own voice and style. As she embraces this solo chapter, viewers are getting a closer look at her warmth, humor, and ability to connect with both her co-hosts and the audience.
While there’s no official word on a permanent replacement for Hoda’s seat, one thing is clear: Jenna Bush Hager is more than capable of holding her own. With her natural charisma and the support of her rotating guest hosts, the show continues to thrive.
Hoda’s parting words seem to ring true: Jenna’s time to shine has arrived. Whether she eventually welcomes a full-time co-host or continues the guest host format, she’s proven that she’s more than ready to lead the fourth hour of Today.
Fans can expect more laughter, heartfelt moments, and unforgettable celebrity pairings as Jenna carves out her own legacy on the show. Stay tuned — you won’t want to miss what’s next!
