Sheinelle Jones Named Co-Host of TODAY's Fourth Hour
NBC Announces Permanent Co-Host for TODAY with Jenna & Sheinelle, Launching January 2026
After nearly a year of anticipation and 60 rotating co-hosts, NBC's TODAY show has officially announced its newest addition: Sheinelle Jones will join Jenna Bush Hager as the permanent co-host of the show's beloved fourth hour, launching TODAY with Jenna & Sheinelle on January 12, 2026.
The emotional announcement came Tuesday morning on TODAY with Jenna & Friends, with Bush Hager visibly moved as she introduced her new co-host to millions of viewers nationwide.
"You all know her, she's an extraordinary broadcaster, but more importantly, she exemplifies exactly what this show is all about. To have a show like this is beyond my wildest dreams. This is the real deal, and I get to do it with Jenna."— Sheinelle Jones, Co-Host of TODAY with Jenna & Sheinelle
A Journey of Resilience and Triumph
Jones, 47, brings more than a decade of NBC News experience to her new role, having joined Weekend TODAY in 2014 before becoming co-host of TODAY's third hour in 2019. Her path to this milestone moment has been marked by both professional excellence and profound personal courage.
In May 2025, Jones lost her husband of 17 years, Uche Ojeh, to brain cancer after taking a leave of absence to care for him. Her return to TODAY in September was a testament to her strength and resilience, and she has spoken openly about "fighting for joy" in the aftermath of devastating loss.
For those of you who are holding something, whether it's grief or pain or whatever you're holding, I just hope you know that if you see me here, that means you can do it too."— Sheinelle Jones on her return to TODAY
On Tuesday, Jones shared that she told her children first about the new position, adding, "There was so much joy in our house and we needed that joy. When I came back from leave, I talked about fighting for my joy. This is what it looks like. It feels divine. It feels like Uche is up there with God."
The Search for Hoda Kotb's Replacement
The announcement comes after an extensive and highly publicized search for a permanent fourth hour co-host following Hoda Kotb's departure from the show in January 2025. Kotb, who co-hosted with Bush Hager since 2019, left behind big shoes to fill and a devoted audience eager to see who would join the TODAY family.
The interim period, branded as TODAY with Jenna & Friends, featured an impressive rotation of 60 co-hosts and special guests, including:
Oscar nominee Taraji P. Henson
Former First Lady Michelle Obama
Hollywood stars Scarlett Johansson, Halle Berry, and Henry Winkler
Music icons Ciara, John Legend, Sheryl Crow, and Cardi B
Even Hoda Kotb herself returned for a one-off appearance
Why Sheinelle Jones?
According to TODAY executive vice president Libby Leist and executive producer Talia Parkinson-Jones, the choice of Jones represents "an exciting new chapter for the fourth hour."
"Jenna and Sheinelle are two extraordinary talents who have grown within the ranks of TODAY. They are beloved for their authenticity, warmth and genuine connection with our TODAY audience."— Libby Leist & Talia Parkinson-Jones, TODAY Executives
The executives praised Jones's 11-year tenure at NBC News, highlighting her "standout interviews with newsmakers and celebrities" and her "iconic Halloween performances as Beyoncé and Tina Turner" that have "captivated audiences time and again."
What This Means for TODAY's Lineup
With Jones moving to the fourth hour, she will step away from TODAY's Third Hour, where she has been a co-host since 2019. The third hour will continue with co-hosts Craig Melvin, Al Roker, and Dylan Dreyer.
The fourth hour has long been a cornerstone of TODAY's programming, known for its lighter, more conversational tone that differs from the hard news focus of earlier hours. Under Kotb and Bush Hager's tenure, the show became appointment viewing for millions of Americans, featuring celebrity interviews, lifestyle segments, and the genuine friendship between its hosts.
A Blessing from Hoda
In a touching full-circle moment, Jones revealed that Hoda Kotb called her the night of the announcement to offer advice and encouragement.
"Remember this moment. You're going to talk about how this was a moment that changed your career, and it was the best decision for your kids, for you. Working with Jenna — it's going to be better than you can ever imagine."— Hoda Kotb's advice to Sheinelle Jones
The Chemistry That Sealed the Deal
Bush Hager's emotional reaction during the announcement made it clear that the decision wasn't just about finding a talented broadcaster—it was about finding someone who embodies the spirit of what the fourth hour represents.
"I'm so happy you're here," Bush Hager told Jones through tears. "I knew I was going to cry before you walked out, I tried not to."
The genuine affection between the two co-hosts was evident, suggesting that viewers can expect the same authentic friendship and chemistry that made TODAY with Hoda & Jenna such a beloved program.