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Sheinelle Jones makes her debut Permanent co-host Jenna Bush Hager in brand new Today with Jenna and Shinelle exhibit.
Monday’s sold-out premiere featured multiple surprises: a video message from her mom in Kansas, a visit from two aspiring journalism students at her alma mater, and a chat with former co-hosts Hoda Kotb and Kathie Lee Gifford.
Kotb and Gifford arrived on the show carrying the torch to pass it to their new co-anchors, giving Jones a hug and wishing her good luck as they recalled the friendships they formed while sharing the stage.
jonesThe 47-year-old announced in December that she would no longer appear in the show’s third hour. today Hager will be joined by Craig Melvin, Al Roker and Dylan Dreyer Kotb’s replacement After she left the network in January 2025.
The news comes less than a year after her husband took on his new role as fourth hour co-host. Uche Ojeh dies of brain cancer 45 years old.
In an emotional moment aired on Monday, Jones said Oye had always dreamed of her own show and encouraged her to Kotb announced she would be leaving at the end of 2024today.
“He felt like it was my turn to shine and try,” Jones said through tears. “So now it feels like confirmation. Here we are two years later and he’s like ‘Told you so.'”
Hagrid replied: “I know he’s looking down on your grandmother, you just recently lost her, they may be following our new arrival. [theme] Sing and cheer you on. “
Later in the show, Jones was also surprised by a visit from Cassandra Fleming Hayes, the woman who inspired her to become a journalist.
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Hayes and Jones, who haven’t seen each other in more than 30 years, sat down to talk about their journeys to becoming broadcast journalists.
Jones considers Hayes her role model, saying, “Sometimes it takes other people to see you back…I’m just in awe of you.”
The show sparked emotions among viewers and hosts, with fans taking to social media to congratulate Jones on his new role.
“Wow I had no idea I would cry watching the Jenna & Sheinelle show on @TODAYshow! Congratulations @SheinelleJones! It was meant to be! @JennaBushHager & you are going to have a blast!” one X user wrote.
Another added: “Suddenly I’m crying with Sheinelle. She’s the perfect match for Jenna.”