The Real Reason Today Struggles to Pick Jenna Bush Hager’s Permanent Co-Host—Insiders Reveal: ‘No One Can Replace Her!’
Today has yet to make a final decision on Jenna Bush Hager’s new co-host—but why? Insiders say producers aren’t in a rush to find a replacement, and here’s the surprising reason.
Today Show Still Undecided on Jenna Bush Hager’s Co-Host
Since Hoda Kotb’s departure in January, Today has been testing different co-hosts alongside Jenna Bush Hager on the fourth-hour segment, now titled Jenna & Friends. Despite the rotating lineup, no permanent replacement has been named—and according to insiders, that may not change anytime soon.
Actress Scarlett Johansson has been a standout guest co-host, earning praise from both Jenna and viewers alike. She’s even been invited back for another stint in March. But while audiences have loved seeing new faces, producers are taking their time before making a long-term decision.
An insider revealed to DailyMail.com, “There’s no rush to lock in a co-host right now. Plenty of people are interested in the role, but the show is working well in its current format.”
Why Is Today Holding Off on a Decision?
With Jenna & Friends airing for six weeks now, many expected NBC to have selected a full-time co-host by now. However, sources suggest that executives see no reason to hurry the process.
Hoda, who had been a staple of Today for nearly three decades, announced her departure last year, citing a major life shift after turning 60. In a heartfelt farewell letter, she reflected on her career and the relationships she built along the way.
“As I write this, my heart is all over the place,” she shared. “I know I’m making the right choice, but that doesn’t make it easy. I love this show, but it’s time for me to go.”
She also paid tribute to her longtime co-workers, calling Jenna her “ride-or-die,” and noting how deeply she would miss her Today family.
Read More:
- Hoda Kotb unexpectedly reveals the real reason she left the Today Show: “It was all because of one person.”
- Al Roker shares the unbelievable event that led to his cancer diagnosis: “That little girl was my savior.”
- NBC staff leak the identity of the next host to “walk away” after Hoda Kotb, with an official announcement coming soon following Hoda’s departure.
Jenna Embraces Her New Hosting Role—But Isn’t Rushing Into a Partnership
With Jenna taking the reins of the fourth hour, the show has leaned into its new format, allowing different guest hosts to join her. She even joked that she’s treating the process like “roster dating.”
“I’m single—not in my home life, but at work!” Jenna quipped when the new format was introduced. “So this show is all about friendship. We have incredible guests, friends, and family who are part of its DNA, and we’re bringing them along for the ride!”
Will Today Eventually Choose a Permanent Co-Host?
For now, Jenna & Friends is thriving as it is, with no immediate plans to name a permanent co-host. With Jenna’s natural chemistry with a variety of guests, insiders believe that the flexibility of the format is working in the show’s favor.
Could Scarlett Johansson—or another fan-favorite guest—end up taking on a full-time role? Or will Jenna & Friends remain an ever-changing lineup of personalities?
Stay tuned to see what’s next for the Today show’s fourth hour!
