Sheinelle Jones explains why she's taking month-long off from 'Today'

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: Sheinelle Jones, a long-standing co-anchor of NBC’s 'Today' show, has officially addressed her prolonged absence from the program.

In a heartfelt Instagram post on Wednesday, January 15, the journalist revealed that she has been away from her duties for over a month due to a family health issue.

Sheinelle Jones' absence from 'Today' show

In her post, Sheinelle Jones wrote, “I sincerely appreciate all of you who have reached out while I’ve been absent from the show."

“I want to share that I’m taking time to deal with a family health matter. It’s not lost how lucky I am to have not only the support of my 'Today' show family but also all of you," she added.

"Your kindness means so much to me. I’ll see you soon," Jones added.

'Today' co-hosts express support on-air

Sheinelle Jones’ absence was a topic of conversation on 'Today' show on Wednesday, January 15.

Savannah Guthrie shared the news with viewers, reading Jones’ Instagram statement aloud.

“We want to share some news here about our friend Sheinelle,” Guthrie said.

“We know so many of you have been asking about her and missing her, and we miss her too,” she added.

Craig Melvin echoed the sentiment, adding, “We all love you, and we are so looking forward to having you back.”

Fellow co-host Dylan Dreyer chimed in, saying, “Sheinelle, we love you,” while Al Roker sent an air kiss.

Fans notice extended Sheinelle Jones' absence

Sheinelle Jones, who has been a part of the 'Today' show since 2014 and co-hosts 'Today 3rd Hour' alongside Melvin, Roker, and Dreyer, last appeared live on December 18.

She has since been seen only in pre-recorded segments.

Viewers grew concerned when Jones missed significant moments on the show, including former co-anchor Hoda Kotb’s emotional farewell last week.

Both Jones’ personal Instagram and the 'Today' show’s accounts saw an outpouring of support, with fans wondering when she might return.

In Jones’ absence, NBC has relied on correspondents Carson Daly, Vicky Nguyen, Laura Jarrett, and Savannah Sellers to fill her role.

Sheinelle Jones' family and career balance

Sheinelle Jones and her husband, Uche Ojeh, share three children, Kayin, 15, and 12-year-old twins Clara and Uche.

The couple met while attending Northwestern University and married in 2007 after nearly a decade of dating, according to Page Six.

The anchor has always been candid about the challenges of balancing a demanding career with family life.

While no specific timeline for her return has been announced, Guthrie noted, “We’re holding down the fort for her, but we miss her energy and presence."