Jenna Bush Hager Reacts to Hoda Kotb's Departure

Jenna Bush Hager expressed her shock at Hoda Kotb's announcement of her departure from the Today show after 11 years, which was revealed on September 26. During an episode of her podcast, Hager shared that she was informed just one week before the public announcement and praised Kotb for making decisions that resonate with her personal needs. Kotb, who cited a desire to spend more time with her daughters as the reason for her exit, will make her final appearance on January 10, 2025. Hager admitted feeling a sense of loss, stating, 'When everybody's like, 'Oh my God, congratulations,' it’s like, 'I feel like I’ve been dumped.' Nevertheless, she has begun to come to terms with Kotb's decision. Craig Melvin has been named as Kotb's replacement, while Hager continues to seek a permanent cohost for their segment.