Jenna Bush Hager’s Daughter Mila Banned from ‘Today’ After Controversial On-Air Comments

NEW YORK, N.Y. — Jenna Bush Hager, co-host of NBC‘s ‘Today with Jenna & Friends,’ revealed that her 11-year-old daughter, Mila Hager, has been banned from appearing on the show after making controversial comments during a previous appearance. The ban, enforced by Jenna’s husband, Henry Hager, came after Mila shared embarrassing stories about her mother on live television.

“She said something very controversial,” Jenna told E! News in an exclusive interview. “So, therefore, my husband gave her a lifetime ban. We’ll see if that’s lifted, maybe for bring your kids to work day. But she hasn’t been always the most supportive, let’s just say that.”

Mila’s last appearance on ‘Today with Hoda & Jenna’ in January 2022 included a series of candid revelations, including a story about her mother laughing so hard she “peed her pants” and an unexpected claim about Jenna not wearing underwear. The segment quickly went viral, prompting Jenna to humorously usher her daughter off the set.

Despite the ban, Jenna acknowledged Mila’s enthusiasm for the spotlight. “You know who really wants to do it? Mila Hager,” she said. “They’re not jumping, but I may push them like I’ve done my whole life.”

Jenna, who has co-hosted the show for over a decade, reflected on her time working with Hoda Kotb, who left the program earlier this month after nearly 17 years. She credited Kotb with teaching her valuable lessons about empathy and presence. “She’s the most empathetic. She taught me how to really listen, how to be present with our guests,” Jenna said. “But she also is so fun. Fun is underrated, and I think that’s our mantra.”

In the meantime, Jenna is enjoying her new role alongside guest hosts, including Scarlett Johansson. “All of the women that have said yes are like dream guests,” she said. “We do not take that lightly. And we’re so excited.”

‘Today with Jenna & Friends’ airs weekday mornings on NBC.