Support at “Today” Show Amid Personal Struggles
The “Today” show has always been more than just a job; it feels like family. When one member faces a challenge, others step up to lend support. This was evident when Sheinelle Jones’ husband, Uche Ojie, received a glioblastoma diagnosis in fall 2023 and sadly passed away the following May. Savannah Guthrie was there for Jones during that difficult time.
Fast forward to February 1, when Guthrie’s mother, Nancy, went missing from her home in Arizona. The “Today” family quickly rallied to support Guthrie as she navigated this crisis.
“We’re going to rally around our sister,” Jones shared. “She was there for me, and we know how to do this.” Jones, who has three children—sons Cain (16) and Uche Jr. (13), along with daughter Clara (13)—chose to focus on supporting Savannah rather than panicking. She reflected on a day when Savannah visited her in the hospital, saying, “You were my oxygen that day.”
Bush Hager expressed her heartbreak for Savannah during an interview: “Our hearts are broken, but we love her.” Notably, Nancy went missing just two weeks after the launch of “Jenna and Sheinelle,” the show they host together.
Jones acknowledged that starting a new show during such an emotional time shifted her perspective on work. Viewership has notably increased, with a 30% rise compared to last year. Jones commented, “In a different scenario, we might just focus on the show, but real life was unfolding in front of us.”
She believes that these difficult circumstances have brought her and Bush Hager closer together. “It connects us in ways we can’t even fully explain,” she said.
Hoda Kotb briefly returned to the “Today” desk to cover updates related to the situation but both Bush Hager and Jones chose to address the emotional toll of Savannah’s absence honestly. “We can’t pretend everything is normal,” Bush Hager remarked. “It was a hard time; we genuinely care.”
Bush Hager’s father, former President George W. Bush, even jokes about how much closer the team has grown. “What about your family?” he teases, highlighting their strong bonds. They feel fortunate to work in an environment where caring for each other is paramount.
When asked if the situation made them anxious about their families’ safety, Bush Hager dismissed the notion. “No, it’s about supporting one person right now,” she said. They were concerned about how they could help, not about “what if” scenarios for themselves.
Jones officially joined the show as co-host alongside Bush Hager on January 12, filling a previous role held by Kotb. Bush Hager had long wanted Jones to be her partner, but waited for the right time out of respect for what she was going through.
The two have developed a supporting partnership, with Bush Hager frequently stepping in during Jones’ recent book tour for “Through Mama’s Eyes.” They joked about their dynamic feeling like “dating on live TV,” an experience that often acted like therapy for them.
Both women find common ground despite their differences; Jones from Wichita and Bush Hager from Texas. Their ratings have seen a substantial increase of 30% year-on-year, with viewers responding well to both heartfelt discussions and lighter, fun segments.
The show has recently achieved its highest audience share in four years, all while Bush Hager insists that discussions about ratings are rare. “The focus is on connecting with our audience,” she emphasized.
Out of the spotlight, Bush Hager is busy managing a national book club, penning books, and adapting stories for television. “You have to pursue what sets your heart on fire,” she said, reflecting on a childhood dream come true.
Jones feels a deep sense of purpose at the NBC set. “Here, I don’t have to worry about anything,” she said. Her faith has been a guiding force for both her and Savannah, especially given the uncertainty surrounding Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance. With a $1 million reward for information, hope remains that answers will surface.
Jones shared a comforting thought from Savannah on finding small moments of reprieve in difficult times. “Every morning, a little bit of manna comes,” she recalled Savannah saying.
Prior to officially joining the show, Kotb advised Jones that it would be a significant decision in her career. Reflecting on that, Jones said, “I love the freedom we have to think together, even not knowing exactly where we’re headed.” Turning to Bush Hager, she added, “I know you’ll support me, whatever path I choose.”
