Sheinelle Jones Named Permanent Co-Host for Jenna Bush Hager on Revamped Today Show

NBC’s Today show has found its new permanent team. Sheinelle Jones will officially become Jenna Bush Hager’s co-host starting January 8, 2026. The popular fourth hour will be renamed Today with Jenna & Sheinelle. This announcement ends an eleven-month search following Hoda Kotb’s departure last year.

The decision was confirmed on air during the December 9 broadcast. Jenna Bush Hager emotionally introduced Sheinelle as her “forever friend.” According to NBC News, the network tested over 60 guest co-hosts before making this final selection.

A Seamless Transition Backed by Hoda Kotb’s Blessing

The transition has full support from the former host. Sheinelle Jones revealed that Hoda Kotb called her with advice and encouragement. Kotb told her this new role would be a pivotal, positive career moment. She also assured Jones that working with Jenna would be better than imagined.

This endorsement is significant. Hoda Kotb hosted the fourth hour for 17 years, first with Kathie Lee Gifford and then with Jenna. Her departure created a major vacancy on a highly successful program. Jones, a longtime Today show contributor, is a familiar and trusted face to the audience.

A Packed 2026 Television Lineup Awaits Viewers

The host reveal coincides with networks announcing major 2026 premieres. January will see the return of major franchises and brand-new series. Key launches include the fourth season of Netflix‘s Bridgerton on January 29, focusing on Benedict Bridgerton’s story.

HBO will premiere A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms on January 18, expanding the Game of Thrones universe. Fox is also debuting several high-profile shows, including the thriller Memory of a Killer starring Patrick Dempsey. This crowded schedule highlights the competitive landscape for daytime and primetime television.

The new Today with Jenna & Sheinelle represents a fresh chapter for a flagship program. Its success hinges on the chemistry between its two established hosts. This pairing aims to maintain the show’s dominant position in morning television for years to come.

Info at your fingertips

Who did Sheinelle Jones replace on the Today show?

Sheinelle Jones permanently replaced Hoda Kotb as Jenna Bush Hager’s co-host. Kotb left the fourth hour in early 2025 after 17 years in the role.

When does the new Today show with Sheinelle Jones start?

The revamped show, *Today with Jenna & Sheinelle*, premieres on January 8, 2026. This marks Sheinelle Jones’s official first day as the permanent co-host.

What other major TV shows are premiering in January 2026?

Notable premieres include *Bridgerton* Season 4 on Netflix, *A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms* on HBO, and new Fox dramas like *Memory of a Killer*. Many returning reality and competition series also launch that month.

How long did the search for the new co-host take?

The search lasted approximately eleven months. Jenna Bush Hager sat alongside more than 60 different guest co-hosts during the extensive audition process before Jones was selected.

What was Hoda Kotb’s reaction to the news?

Hoda Kotb fully supported the choice. She personally called Sheinelle Jones to offer wisdom and encouragement, calling it a career-defining and positive move.