Jenna Bush Hager took responsibility for the unexpected shakeup on The Today Show’s 4th hour, revealing that Scarlett Johansson would be stepping in as her new co-host. Find out why Jenna says, “Sorry, Hoda, but I was forced too,” and how this change is bittersweet.
Jenna Bush Hager’s Surprising Announcement
Jenna Bush Hager stunned viewers and colleagues alike when she announced on The Today Show that Scarlett Johansson would join her as the new co-host for the program’s 4th hour. The news came with an unexpected twist—Jenna admitted she felt personally “to blame” for this bittersweet shakeup, even going as far as to publicly apologize to her former co-host, Hoda Kotb.
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- NBC announced they signed another “special deal” with Hoda Kotb after she officially left Today: “She deserves to shine more than in that place.”
- Sheinelle Jones and Craig Melvin mocked Dylan Dreyer for being late to the Third Hour, calling it “another boycott” against the “poor girl”: “She’s so broke she had to take the bus here.”
- Al Roker shared that his daughter Leila “never ceases to amaze me” as he revealed she now has a “partner,” and it’s someone of the same gender!
“Sorry, Hoda, but I was forced too…” Jenna said during her candid on-air explanation. While her words raised eyebrows, she quickly clarified the situation, emphasizing that the decision wasn’t entirely in her hands. Fans were left both intrigued and emotional as Jenna detailed the reasons behind this dramatic change.
Why Scarlett Johansson Was Chosen for The Today Show
The choice of Scarlett Johansson as Jenna’s new co-host marks a bold move for The Today Show. As one of Hollywood’s most beloved and versatile actresses, Johansson brings star power and fresh energy to the program. According to Jenna, the decision to bring Scarlett onboard wasn’t something she had initially envisioned but rather something she felt “pressured” into by higher-ups.
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- Jenna Bush Hager joked that her son Hal is a ‘miserable little clown’ for having to face her husband every morning and go through this bizarre ritual before heading to school: ‘Henry seems to be channeling Tom Cruise to join Scientology…’
- 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!
“It’s not every day you get to work alongside an Oscar-nominated actress,” Jenna quipped during her announcement. “But I know this comes at a cost, and I want to acknowledge how much Hoda has meant to this show and to me personally.”
Producers reportedly believed that Scarlett’s magnetic presence and relatability would resonate with younger viewers while maintaining the show’s existing audience. Despite this optimism, Jenna admitted that the change felt bittersweet, especially given her strong partnership with Hoda Kotb over the years.
The Bittersweet Goodbye to Hoda Kotb
Hoda Kotb, a fan favorite and a staple of The Today Show, has left an indelible mark on the program’s 4th hour. Her chemistry with Jenna Bush Hager was one of the highlights of the show, with their playful banter and heartfelt conversations drawing in millions of loyal viewers.
Jenna’s announcement of Hoda’s departure from the 4th hour left fans reeling. Many took to social media to express their sadness, with comments like, “The show won’t be the same without Hoda and Jenna together,” and “This feels like the end of an era.”
In her on-air statement, Jenna didn’t shy away from addressing the emotional impact of the transition. “Hoda is irreplaceable,” she said. “She’s been more than a co-host; she’s been a mentor, a friend, and someone I deeply admire. While I’m excited about this new chapter, it’s hard to say goodbye to such a cherished partnership.”
Hoda Kotb, for her part, has expressed nothing but support for Scarlett Johansson and her former co-host. In a heartfelt message shared with fans, she said, “I’m so grateful for the time I had on the 4th hour and for all the incredible moments Jenna and I shared. I know the show will continue to thrive, and I can’t wait to see what’s next.”
What This Change Means for The Today Show
The addition of Scarlett Johansson to the 4th hour is a bold step forward for The Today Show, signaling a potential shift in the program’s tone and focus. Johansson’s presence could bring a unique blend of Hollywood glamour and down-to-earth charm, appealing to both longtime fans and new viewers.
However, this change also raises questions about the direction of the show. Will Scarlett’s background as an actress translate to the dynamic world of live television? How will her chemistry with Jenna Bush Hager evolve on screen?
Jenna herself acknowledged the challenges ahead, saying, “This is a big change for all of us, but I believe Scarlett has so much to bring to the table. I’m excited for what we’ll create together, and I hope viewers will embrace this new journey with us.”
Jenna Bush Hager’s announcement about Scarlett Johansson joining The Today Show as her new co-host has ushered in a bittersweet chapter for the program’s 4th hour. While fans will miss the iconic duo of Jenna and Hoda, this change also brings an exciting opportunity to see how Scarlett Johansson’s star power will shape the future of the show.
What are your thoughts on this surprising shakeup? Will Scarlett Johansson live up to expectations as the new co-host? Let us know in the comments, and don’t forget to tune in to The Today Show to see this exciting new chapter unfold!
