Sheinelle Jones, Jenna Bush Hager.

By Joe Lombardi From Daily Voice

NBC's "Today" show’s fourth hour has a new co-host.

In an emotional announcement during the Tuesday, Dec. 9 broadcast, Jenna Bush Hager revealed that Sheinelle Jones will officially step into the role left vacant by Hoda Kotb about a year ago.

"We have got a very special show today," Bush Hager said. "Over the last year, you guys, I have had the privilege of co-hosting this show with 60 incredible friends, who’ve all opened up to me, who inspired me. I’ve laughed, 

"I’ve cried I’ve made some incredible friends and I’ve learned so much about myself, and you the audience have been with me for the entire time, so thank you so much."

Bush Hager, age 44, said that Jones, age 47, will join as the new permanent co-host starting Monday, Jan. 12. Jones will step down from her role as one of the anchors of the third hour of "Today," sharing the desk with Craig Melvin, Dylan Dreyer, and Al Roker.

"I couldn’t be more excited to share this person with you all," Bush Hager said. "You all know her, she’s an extraordinary broadcaster. But more importantly, she exemplifies exactly what this show is all about."

Jones, a Philadelphia native, has been a familiar face on NBC since joining the "Today" show in 2014. She has anchored a range of breaking news and feature stories, and has also reported for MSNBC (rebranded as MS NOW) and other NBC News platforms.

Bush Hager, born in Dallas and the daughter of former US President George W. Bush, has become a staple of morning TV since joining "Today" in 2009 and later launching the book club "Read with Jenna." She has been co-hosting the fourth hour since 2019.

Hoda Kotb

Hoda Kotb

Wikipedia/Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Isaac Rodriguez

The pairing brings together two seasoned broadcasters with deep connections to viewers and a reputation for heartfelt storytelling and lively conversation.