Today with Jenna & Sheinelle Premiere: Emotional Reunion with Former Hosts Kathie Lee Gifford and Hoda Kotb
The premiere of Today with Jenna & Sheinelle featured a surprise appearance by former hosts Kathie Lee Gifford and Hoda Kotb, who presented a wine torch to the new co-hosts. The emotional moment included toasts with rosé from Gifford's GIFFT brand and reminiscing about past experiences on the show. Kotb, who co-hosted Today with Hoda & Jenna until 2025, shared advice with Sheinelle Jones, calling her and Jenna Bush Hager a "match made in heaven."
Kotb's decision to step down from Today in 2025 was to focus on spending time with her daughters and her wellness app, Joy 101. She had previously co-hosted with Kathie Lee Gifford, known for their lively morning antics and wine-drinking on the show. Gifford, who surprised Kotb on her exit in 2025, expressed her love for Kotb and her initial hesitancy to join the program.
Sheinelle Jones, who recently lost her husband and grandmother, shared her hopes for a brighter future in the new year. The emotional moments and heartfelt connections between the former and current hosts of Today highlighted the bond shared by the women on the show. The premiere marked a new chapter for Jenna & Sheinelle, with support and well wishes from their predecessors.