On January 12, 2025, Sheinelle Jones will officially step into her new role as co-host of the Fourth Hour of the Today show, alongside Jenna Bush Hager. This transition comes as she fills in for Savannah Guthrie, who is currently recovering from vocal cord surgery. Jones has demonstrated her versatility and appeal, proving she is a valuable asset to the team.
Transitioning to a New Role
As part of her transition, Jones recently bid farewell to colleagues during her last appearance on the Third Hour on January 2. The emotional send-off highlighted her impact over nearly six years in that role. Her colleagues, including Al Roker, Dylan Dreyer, and Craig Melvin, expressed heartfelt gratitude and admiration for her contributions to the show.
During her time in the Third Hour, Jones established herself as a trusted voice, known for her engaging interviews and light-hearted segments. She has been with NBC News for over 11 years, captivating audiences with memorable performances, including her iconic Halloween portrayals of music legends like Beyoncé and Tina Turner.
Acknowledging Her Contributions
In a statement following her new role announcement, Jones expressed her excitement: “To have a show like this is beyond my wildest dreams. This is the real deal, and I get to do it with Jenna.” Libby Leist, executive vice president of Today, along with Talia Parkinson-Jones, executive producer of Jenna & Friends, praised the duo’s chemistry. They remarked, “Jenna and Sheinelle are two extraordinary talents who have grown within the ranks of Today. They are beloved for their authenticity, warmth, and genuine connection with our audience.”
Jones’ colleagues took a moment to reflect on her journey during the farewell segment. Craig Melvin expressed his emotional gratitude by reading a poem dedicated to her. “You are so real and authentic on camera and off,” he said. This sentiment was echoed by Dylan Dreyer, who shared her appreciation for their longstanding friendship.
In her farewell, Jones reassured viewers that while she was leaving the Third Hour, she was not saying goodbye. “You are not getting rid of me,” she quipped, highlighting her commitment to continue connecting with the audience in her new role.
With this significant career shift, Jones is poised to bring her unique perspective and charm to the Fourth Hour, promising an exciting new chapter for the show and its viewers.
