Today With Jenna & Friends: The Search for Hoda Kotb's Permanent Replacement
Jenna Bush Hager has been enjoying her time hosting the fourth hour of Today with various celebrity guests, but the question of who will permanently replace Hoda Kotb remains unanswered. Kotb left the show in January 2025 after a 17-year run, and Craig Melvin took over as Savannah Guthrie's news coanchor. Bush Hager relaunched the fourth hour as Today With Jenna & Friends, featuring cohosts like Scarlett Johansson, Taraji P. Henson, Keke Palmer, Amy Poehler, Dwyane Wade, and more.
During Kotb's exit announcement in September 2024, she praised Bush Hager's talent and bright personality, stating that whoever joins the show will have an easy job sitting next to her. Kotb made a guest appearance on Jenna & Friends in May 2025, expressing how special their bond is. While some cohosts have shown interest in a permanent role, Bush Hager acknowledges the show's evolving nature post-Kotb's departure.
Bush Hager is actively involved in the selection process for her future cohost, emphasizing the importance of taking time to find the right fit for the audience. Kotb has also shared her excitement about the upcoming decision, highlighting Bush Hager's exceptional hosting skills. The show's lineup is planned through the spring and early summer, with Bush Hager enjoying the present moment and the surprises it brings.
Barbara Bush, Jenna's twin sister, briefly stepped in as a guest cohost but expressed no interest in pursuing a permanent role. Bush Hager appreciates the support from fans and the chemistry with guest hosts like Justin Sylvester. Kotb hinted at a potential reunion with Jenna in the future, while Guthrie emphasized the family-like atmosphere at Today.
Heather McMahan, who cohosted a week on Jenna & Friends, expressed interest in joining the show full-time, praising Bush Hager and the production team. However, Kathie Lee Gifford, who cohosted with Kotb, stated she is not interested in returning to the show permanently. Gifford is happy to see Kotb pursuing her passion for the wellness community post-Today.