Sheinelle Jones set to officially replace Hoda Kotb on 'Today' as Jenna Bush Hager's co-host

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: Sheinelle Jones is set to officially take over co-hosting duties of 'Today' from Hoda Kotb, according to a report by The US Sun on Tuesday, February 25.

The announcement will be formally made by NBC executives after Jones returns from her leave, an insider shared with the publication.

Jones will be joining co-host Jenna Bush Hager permanently in the fourth hour of 'Today'. Since Kotb's departure in January, Hager has helmed the segment with guest co-hosts such as Scarlett Johansson, Amy Poehler, and Ciara.

Sheinelle Jones set to become permanent 'Today' co-host

The source reportedly told The US Sun that 46-year-old Sheinelle Jones "has the job" and that the network was holding off on the announcement till she returned to work. She reportedly went on leave from the show last December and has been relatively silent on social media as well.

The staff on the show "has been extremely supportive" as she is handling a family matter, they insisted.

While Jones has been finalized in the spot, the show's lifestyle contributor Jill Martin apparently lobbied hard to be a co-host as well. The network executives, on the other hand, found it rewarding to promote anchor Craig Melvin to Hoda's co-anchor spot in her segment with Savannah Guthrie.

"Ratings with Craig are good. This taught executives that the audience wants people they know and that they should promote from within," shared the source.

Being a seasoned anchor accompanying a relatively less experienced Hager gave Jones an advantage, the source added. "They need someone who can throw to break, someone who knows the craft of making TV work, and Sheinelle is a pro."

Fans miss Sheinelle Jones on 'Today'

Netizens took to X (formerly Twitter) to share how much they missed Sheinelle Jones throughout her absence from 'Today' and expressed their concern for her and her family. 

"Hoping everything is ok. She’s a big light on the show and will be missed," wrote a person.

"All the best you are missed," noted another.

"Sheinelle, we miss seeing you and your warm smile! Praying for you and your family!" expressed a third.

"We miss you, Sheinelle, and we are keeping you and your family in our prayers," echoed a fourth.

"We love Sheinelle. Hope to see her return," stated a fifth.

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