Jenna Bush Hager Welcomes Star-Studded Guest Hosts on TODAY

NEW YORK, NY — Jenna Bush Hager is set to host an exciting lineup of celebrity guest co-hosts on NBC‘s TODAY as part of a month-long celebration dubbed “Wonder Women.” This series of guest appearances was officially announced in early January, kicking off with a star-studded roster from January 13 to January 17.

The debut week featured renowned performers including Taraji P. Henson, Keke Palmer, Eva Longoria, and Michelle Buteau, who brought their charisma to the morning show. Following this initial week, Scarlett Johansson joined Hager for Week 2, drawing attention to the evolving concept of the show.

As the weeks progressed, notable names like Kelsea Ballerini, Ciara, and Wynonna Judd took the stage in Week 3 for a special “Music Week.” During Week 4, comedian Ego Nwodim appeared alongside Hager to kick off a themed segment honoring the popular sketch comedy show Saturday Night Live (SNL), prompting excitement among fans for an SNL-themed Week 5 featuring talents such as Amy Poehler and Ana Gasteyer.

Jenna Bush Hager commented on the new format, saying, “It’s going to be our month of wonder women. We’re celebrating strong female voices in entertainment.”

For Week 6, starting February 18, TV host Justin Sylvester will co-host alongside Hager. Sylvester made the announcement on a recent episode, expressing his surprise and enthusiasm for the opportunity. “We’re gonna have a blast,” he remarked on-air.

Longtime viewers of TODAY will recognize Sylvester as he previously appeared frequently with Hager and Katie Couric in previous segments. Hager and Sylvester had a light-hearted exchange regarding his upcoming participation in the show, underscoring the chemistry they share. “This is what I felt like when I found out I was doing this with you,” he joked, referencing a viral meme.

Jenna smiled and shared her excitement about the guest host series and the evolvement of the fourth hour of TODAY. The new format emerged following the departure of Hoda Kotb, who has been a staple of the program, prompting Hager to express both surprise and nostalgia during her podcast. “I was shocked, shocked,” Hager said regarding Kotb’s exit.

As the rotation of star guests continues to enhance the show’s dynamic, Bush Hager expressed gratitude towards her former co-host, stating, “If I’m bright, it’s because I’m sitting in your glow.”

The revamped format of the fourth hour debuted on January 10, and viewers can catch new episodes of TODAY with Jenna & Friends weekdays at 7 AM ET on NBC.