Get ready for a heartwarming twist in morning television that could redefine daytime talk shows! Sheinelle Jones is officially stepping into the role of permanent co-host alongside Jenna Bush Hager for TODAY's fourth hour, bringing a fresh energy to a segment that's all about fun, feel-good discussions, and celebrity chats. But here's where it gets truly fascinating—after a whirlwind search through dozens of guests, this partnership promises to blend authenticity with star power in ways that might surprise even the most dedicated viewers.
After more than 10 months of experimenting with around 60 different contenders to fill the co-host spot, Jenna Bush Hager made her announcement on December 9th. Sheinelle will join her for the rebranded show, now called TODAY with Jenna & Sheinelle, starting January 12th. This marks a significant milestone, as Sheinelle becomes the first permanent co-host for this time slot since Hoda Kotb left the program (for more on Hoda's heartfelt farewell, check out this link: https://www.today.com/popculture/hoda-kotb-goodbye-letter-today-show-rcna187116). For those new to the TODAY show lineup, the fourth hour is that lively block from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. EST, focused on lighter topics like pop culture, lifestyle tips, and interviews that keep the audience entertained without the heavy news of earlier segments.
TODAY's executive vice president, Libby Leist, and the executive producer of Jenna & Friends, Talia Parkinson-Jones, expressed their excitement in a note to the staff. 'This is the start of an exhilarating era for the fourth hour,' they shared. 'Jenna and Sheinelle stand out as exceptional personalities who've risen through the ranks at TODAY. Their realness, kindness, and deep rapport with our viewers make them perfect for this role.'
Now, 47-year-old Sheinelle will transition from her position on the third hour of TODAY to co-host the new show in the coming year. Meanwhile, familiar faces like Craig Melvin, Al Roker, and Dylan Dreyer will continue anchoring the 9 a.m. hour, ensuring continuity for fans who tune in early.
Leist and Parkinson-Jones highlighted Sheinelle's impressive tenure at NBC News, spanning over 11 years. 'She's delivered memorable conversations with influential figures and stars, plus her legendary Halloween transformations into icons like Beyoncé (see the fun here: https://www.today.com/life/holidays/live-blog/2025-today-show-halloween-reveal-rcna237601) and Tina Turner (relive the magic at: https://www.today.com/popculture/today-show-halloween-2018-see-anchors-alongside-their-80s-inspirations-t140960),' they noted. These moments have consistently drawn in audiences, showcasing her versatility and charm.
In September, Sheinelle made a guest appearance co-hosting TODAY with Jenna & Friends, showcasing their seamless teamwork from past collaborations. She playfully likened the experience to a first date, joking, 'Let's hope this ends with you calling me back tomorrow!' To which Jenna reassuringly replied, 'You're definitely coming back.'
This guest stint came just three weeks after Sheinelle returned to the show following the tragic loss of her husband, Uche Ojeh, at age 45, to brain cancer in May (learn more about this poignant story: https://www.today.com/news/sheinelle-jones-husband-death-uche-ojeh-brain-cancer-rcna208705). During her emotional discussion with Jenna on September 22nd (watch the touching exchange: https://www.today.com/popculture/sheinelle-jones-jenna-bush-hager-emotional-fourth-hour-chat-rcna232931), Sheinelle shared the challenges of resuming work after losing her partner of 17 years and the father of their three children. 'It felt like my biggest supporter was gone—my life partner,' she explained. 'The first week back was manageable, but the days that followed were really hard as I adjusted to this new reality.'
Jenna added to the warmth by arranging a surprise visit from Sheinelle's 'Secret Society'—a group of six close friends who supported her through her grief (discover more at: https://www.today.com/popculture/sheinelle-jones-best-friends-visit-today-show-rcna232949). Overwhelmed, Sheinelle exclaimed, 'I'm stunned! Look at these amazing women—they're my sisters, my support network. Karleen, Torrie, Stephanie, Meki, Mia, and Jolen, along with others, have been the ones piecing me back together. It's true what they say about needing a village.'
Sheinelle was among the 60 co-hosts and special guests who rotated through the fourth hour since TODAY with Jenna & Friends launched on January 13th (for the full list, visit: https://www.today.com/popculture/today-with-jenna-and-friends-guest-co-hosts-list-rcna187947). Notable names included Oscar nominee Taraji P. Henson, who appeared on the premiere episode and returned on January 17th.
In their staff message, Leist and Parkinson-Jones praised Jenna's resilience and the team's efforts: 'We commend the unstoppable Jenna Bush Hager and the Jenna & Friends crew for keeping the show lively and captivating with 60 varied co-hosts since January!' They added, 'The program never faltered, even as Jenna embarked on these 'first dates' broadcast to millions.'
The lineup of co-hosts and guests was a who's who of celebrities and influencers. From former First Lady Michelle Obama to musical stars like Ciara, John Legend, Sheryl Crow, Kelsea Ballerini, and Cardi B, the show attracted top talent. Hollywood actresses such as Scarlett Johansson, Regina Hall, Rosie Perez, Leslie Bibb, Halle Berry, and Henry Winkler also joined Jenna. And let's not forget the hilarious moments brought by SNL alumni including Amy Poehler, Bowen Yang, Mikey Day, Chloe Fineman, Ana Gasteyer, Ego Nwodim, and Cheri Oteri, as well as comedians like Tiffany Haddish, Chelsea Handler, Wanda Sykes, Leanne Morgan, and Nikki Glaser, who had everyone in stitches.
Even Jenna's husband, Henry Hager, popped in for several episodes, along with other members of the TODAY family, adding personal touches that made the show feel like a big, welcoming group.
And this is the part most people miss—the sheer diversity of guests raises an interesting question: Is the fourth hour evolving into a celebrity magnet, or should it focus more on everyday stories to stay true to its roots? Some might argue it's a smart way to boost ratings, while others could see it as diluting the show's authenticity. What do you think—does this blend of stars and substance make TODAY's fourth hour more engaging, or is there a risk of it feeling too superficial? Share your opinions in the comments below; I'd love to hear if you agree, disagree, or have your own take on the best morning show format!
Scott Stump, a reporter who covers trending topics, pens the daily This is TODAY newsletter—sign up here to get your daily dose of news highlights, wellness advice, parenting insights, delicious recipes, and inspiring tales delivered straight to your inbox (https://link.today.com/join/5ci/today-signup). He's been contributing to TODAY.com since 2011, crafting stories across entertainment, family life, current events, health, fashion, cuisine, and just about every other topic under the sun.
