Jenna Bush Hager’s unexplained absence on Today leads to familiar face stepping in

Jenna Bush Hager has been missing from Today with Jenna & Sheinelle for the past few days, Sheinelle Jones has been sitting alongside another familiar face instead. 

On Wednesday, Sheinelle started the show by telling viewers: “Look who is here, Willie Geist, Sunday’s Willie Geist, filling in for Jenna this morning.” 

Willie then joined Sheinelle again on Thursday’s episode, with the star telling the audience: “We have Willie Geist, or as we call him, Sweet Willie G!” 

Jenna’s whereabouts wasn’t explained on the show, but she has most likely taken some time off for a long weekend. 

Jenna has been a Fourth Hour co-host since April 2019, joining the show to host alongside Hoda Kotb. 

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Following Hoda’s departure in January 2025, Jenna co-hosted the Fourth Hour alongside a slew of different co-hosts. Previously, the TV host exclusively shared with us how she felt after Hoda left the show. 

She revealed: “Well, the biggest change is there’s no Hoda, you know, and I’m missing her. And obviously it’s a challenge to be with different hosts every week and it’s also an incredible opportunity.” 

Jenna added: “I feel like I’m learning so much about myself…It’s been such a growth opportunity for me to really get to know all these different people and also to carry the show on my own without Hoda, who I adore.” 

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In December, Sheinelle was announced as the new permanent host in December. At the time, Sheinelle said: “To have a show like this is beyond my wildest dreams. This is the real deal, and I get to do it with Jenna.” 

“This marks an exciting new chapter for the fourth hour,” said Today’s executive vice president, Libby Leist, and Jenna & Friends executive producer Talia Parkinson-Jones. 

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“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.” 

“Sheinelle has been a cherished member of NBC News for more than 11 years,” they added. “From standout interviews with newsmakers and celebrities to her iconic Halloween performances as Beyoncé and Tina Turner, she has captivated audiences time and again.”