In a heartfelt on-air announcement Tuesday, Sheinelle Jones was named the permanent co-host of the fourth hour of TODAY, joining longtime anchor Jenna Bush Hager. The newly branded show — slated to debut as TODAY with Jenna & Sheinelle — will premiere on January 12, 2026.
A New Chapter for the Fourth Hour
Since the departure of Hoda Kotb in January 2025, the 10 a.m. hour of TODAY has operated under the name “TODAY with Jenna & Friends,” with a revolving roster of guest co-hosts. Over the past 11 months, more than 60 individuals stepped into the co-host chair beside Jenna.
The decision to select Jones as the permanent co-host restores a consistent presence to the fourth hour — something many longtime viewers and insiders considered overdue. As Jenna put it during the announcement, she feels she’s “found her forever friend,” and the pairing marks a new era for the show.
From Weekend Anchor to Morning Mainstay
Sheinelle Jones has deep roots at TODAY. She first joined the program in 2014 as part of the weekend team, after a lengthy career as a local anchor in Philadelphia.
In 2019, she transitioned to the weekday lineup — co-hosting the third hour alongside Al Roker, Dylan Dreyer, and Craig Melvin. That role will now be vacated as she steps into her new permanent position alongside Jenna.
Her journey to this moment wasn’t without hardship: earlier this year, she stepped away from the show to care for her husband, who passed away in May after a battle with brain cancer. She returned to the air in September — a deeply emotional moment that resonated with viewers and colleagues alike.
Why Sheinelle? Chemistry, Compassion — and a Familiar Face
Producers and executives at NBC cited several reasons for tapping Sheinelle for this role. Her long history with the network, proven broadcasting chops, and — perhaps most importantly — her authentic connection with TODAY’s audience and ethos. Sheinelle’s warmth, empathy, and relatability, particularly in light of her personal loss, struck a chord.
During her guest-hosting stint in September, her on-air rapport with Jenna was immediately apparent. Their exchanges, described by some as “effortless,” convinced many that the duo could carry the show as a permanent team. Executive leaders called the match a “perfect fit.”
What’s Next: Looking Ahead to January
Beginning January 12, viewers can expect “TODAY with Jenna & Sheinelle” to settle the fourth hour into a consistent rhythm. Meanwhile, the third hour of TODAY — co-hosted by Al Roker, Craig Melvin and Dylan Dreyer — will continue.
For Jones, the new role is more than just a job promotion; as she said on air, “this is the real deal” — and she’s doing it with someone she calls “my forever friend.” The announcement signals a fresh, emotionally resonant chapter for TODAY.
