Jenna Bush Hager Shares Long-Awaited Update on Hoda Kotb’s Today Show Replacement

After a tear-filled reunion on-air just last week, Jenna Bush Hager is giving fans an update on the ongoing search for a replacement for Hoda Kotb on the Today show. Since Hoda’s departure earlier this year, viewers have been eager for news regarding the new co-anchor, and Hager has been open about the challenges of filling such a significant role on the beloved morning show.

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Jenna Bush Hager’s Insight on the Search for a Replacement

Speaking with People, Jenna Bush Hager, who had a deep on-screen partnership with Hoda for years, shared an update on the search. “We’re still searching. We definitely want somebody permanent at some point just because that’s our show, and I think The Today Show is such a family,” Hager explained. “So to have somebody sit in that seat means a lot to all of us. So it will happen. I think we’ve all just been kind of living day by day, and we don’t have any developments yet, but we will.”

Since Hoda’s emotional exit in January, after co-hosting Today for 17 years, speculation has been rife about who will permanently replace her in the coveted co-anchor role. Hoda had been an anchor for the 7 a.m. and 8 a.m. time slots and was a beloved figure on Today. Her departure was attributed to her desire to focus on her family, particularly after her daughter Hope’s recent health challenges.

The Reunion: A Heartfelt Moment for Hoda and Jenna

During their reunion, Hoda opened up about her reasons for leaving Today, discussing how her daughter Hope’s hospitalization and subsequent diagnosis with Type 1 diabetes influenced her decision. Hoda’s candidness about her family’s struggles struck a chord with viewers, and Jenna shared how their reunion brought comfort and ease to her.

Hoda Kotb Is 'Dying to Know' Who Will Replace Her as Jenna Bush Hager's Co- Host (Exclusive)

“It was so nice,” Jenna said about being back on set with Hoda. “Even if time goes by, there’s a connection that is undeniable, and I felt that way being with her. I just felt like my nervous system kind of relaxed, and it was so nice to be with her. There could have been no better reunion. It felt really great.”

Jenna and Hoda’s chemistry has always been a highlight of Today, as the pair tackled everything from domestic news to global stories, entertainment, politics, and more. Their lively conversations and natural rapport made them one of the most beloved anchor duos in morning television.

Hoda’s Next Chapter: Family and Wellness

Since leaving Today, Hoda has been focusing on her family and has also launched a new personal wellness brand called Joy 101. According to the website, Joy 101 is designed to “empower individuals to live more joyful, grounded, and purposeful lives.” The initiative includes an app, exclusive courses, and retreats, as well as “happiness hours” featuring live experts who offer uplifting conversations and impactful life lessons.

Hoda’s new business venture reflects her desire to share her experiences with others and help people lead more fulfilling lives. “We want to focus on helping others find more joy in their day-to-day lives and be more connected to themselves and the world around them,” she said in a recent interview.

Hoda Kotb Leaving 'Today' Partly Because of Her Daughters - Motherly

Jenna Bush Hager’s Role Going Forward

While the replacement search continues, Jenna Bush Hager remains at the heart of Today. Fans are excited to see what the next chapter holds for her, whether that’s in a co-hosting capacity with a new partner or perhaps even taking on a larger role herself. She’s proven to be more than capable of carrying the show, and with her affable personality and strong journalistic background, Jenna is poised to continue engaging viewers.

The Future of Today

The Today show’s future is in a state of flux, but one thing is certain: it will continue to thrive with the support of its passionate team. The role of co-anchor is a big one, and finding the right fit to replace Hoda Kotb will be crucial for maintaining the show’s success. But for now, viewers can rest easy knowing that Jenna Bush Hager is steering the ship, making it clear that she remains a central part of the Today family.

As for Hoda Kotb, her new wellness brand and focus on family signal an exciting new direction, and fans will no doubt continue to support her as she embarks on this new chapter of her life.

Conclusion: A New Era for Today

While the search for a new permanent co-anchor continues, one thing is clear: Today will remain in good hands with Jenna Bush Hager at the helm. Her bond with Hoda and her ability to connect with viewers make her a perfect fit for the show’s evolving future. As Hoda embraces her new role outside of television, Today will continue to evolve, with Jenna leading the way through this transition.

Fans can look forward to what’s next for both Hoda and Jenna, knowing that their stories—whether on or off screen—are just beginning.