George W. Bush Calls Daughter Jenna’s Today Show ‘Dumb’ in Family Confession

Jenna Bush Hager revealed a humorous family secret on live television. The Today show host shared that her father, former President George W. Bush, does not watch her program. The confession happened during the November 19 broadcast of the NBC morning show.

Jenna explained she often asks her dad to appear as a guest. His response is consistently blunt and dismissive of the program’s content.

Former President Prefers Retirement Over Morning Television

According to Jenna, the 43rd President has a standard reply. He tells her, “I don’t watch your dumb show.” Her co-hosts found the remark incredibly funny. Carson Daly immediately responded, “That’s why we love him.”

The revelation came shortly after President Bush appeared on Peyton and Eli Manning’s Manningcast. Jenna noted his willingness to join the sports show surprised her. She publicly asked him again to appear on her segment, Jenna & Friends.

Broadcast Team Proposes Creative Solutions for Interview

Savannah Guthrie suggested the Manningcast format was easier for him. He joined via Zoom from his Texas art studio, avoiding a trip to New York. This sparked a creative discussion among the hosts.

Al Roker proposed Jenna travel to Texas to film. Craig Melvin joked the budget could be stretched for a former president. Jenna remained skeptical, laughing that he would likely still refuse.

A History of Televised Family Dynamics

This is not the first time the President’s viewing habits have been discussed. During a 2017 appearance on Today, Kathie Lee Gifford directly asked if he watched his daughter every day. He simply answered, “No.”

Jenna quickly corrected him, reminding him he watches sometimes. Both he and Laura Bush have expressed immense pride in their daughter’s career. They called her a “star” during a 2021 segment, emphasizing their love for her.

The lighthearted exchange underscores the relatable, sometimes awkward dynamics of family relationships, even for a former First Family. Jenna Bush Hager continues to navigate her public role with grace and humor, despite her father’s televised teasing.

Info at your fingertips

What did George W. Bush say about Jenna’s show?

He reportedly told her, “I don’t watch your dumb show.” This was shared by Jenna during a recent broadcast. The comment was made in a lighthearted, familial context.

Has George W. Bush ever been on the Today show?

Yes, the former President has appeared on the program before. His last visit was in 2021, where he and Laura Bush expressed pride in their daughter. He also appeared in 2017.

Why did Jenna think her dad might appear now?

She was encouraged after seeing him on the Manning brothers’ ESPN Manningcast. His participation in that remote interview gave her hope for a similar remote segment on her show.

How did the Today show hosts react?

Al Roker, Savannah Guthrie, and Carson Daly found the story very amusing. They immediately began brainstorming ways to get the former President on the program, suggesting remote interviews.

Do George and Laura Bush support Jenna’s career?

Absolutely. Despite the joking comments, both parents have publicly stated they are extremely proud of her. They have praised her work and success on national television.