Jenna Bush Hager assures fans about Hoda Kotb’s replacement: “The newcomer will be better than the previous one”

Jenna Bush Hager Assures Fans About Hoda Kotb’s Replacement: “The Newcomer Will Be Better Than the Previous One”. Jenna Bush Hager teases Scarlett Johansson’s upcoming stint on Today with Jenna & Friends, calling her “the queen” and promising an exciting new chapter following Hoda Kotb’s bittersweet departure.

Scarlett Johansson Joins Jenna Bush Hager as a Guest Co-Host

The upcoming departure of Hoda Kotb from Today with Jenna & Hoda has left fans curious about her replacement. Jenna Bush Hager, however, is putting their minds at ease by announcing a guest co-host lineup that promises excitement and fresh energy.

In a recent interview with PEOPLE, Bush Hager revealed that actress Scarlett Johansson will join her as a guest co-host for Today with Jenna & Friends, beginning January 21.

“Scarlett Johansson is the queen! I’ve been obsessed with her movies forever,” Bush Hager gushed. “She’s also a big reader, which will make our time together so much fun. We have so much in common!”

The two share even more connections—both have twin siblings and daughters close in age. Johansson’s daughter Rose is 10, while Bush Hager’s eldest, Mila, is 11.

A Rotating Cast of Celebrity Co-Hosts

Ahead of Johansson’s weeklong stint, Today with Jenna & Friends will feature a rotating roster of celebrity co-hosts, including Taraji P. Henson, Eva Longoria, and Keke Palmer. Bush Hager shared her enthusiasm for this approach, saying,

“What’s so cool is that we’re pulling up chairs for all different types of people. Actors, comedians, media personalities—it’s a total representation of who watches our show. There’s something for everyone.”

While this new chapter is thrilling, Bush Hager admits it feels bittersweet. “I adore Hoda. She’s the best partner and the most generous friend. The thought of her not being here is almost too much to bear,” she said.

Hoda Kotb’s Final Week: A “Hoda-Bration”

Kotb, who has spent 25 years with NBC, will bid farewell with a weeklong “Hoda-bration” celebration, culminating in a live show on January 10. The send-off has already been filled with surprises, including an appearance by Kotb’s sorority sisters from Virginia Tech.

Reflecting on the transition, Bush Hager admitted, “I’m excited and nervous, but I’m also going to miss Hoda deeply.”

A New Era for Today

With Scarlett Johansson stepping in as a guest co-host and a star-studded list of temporary replacements, Today with Jenna & Friends promises to deliver a fresh and exciting experience for viewers.