It’s been almost three months since Hoda Kotb handed over the reins to the third hour of Today to Jenna Bush Hager. However, Bush Hager remains grateful to her former co-host for the opportunity.
Bush Hager credited Kotb’s exit for “a really good lesson in saying goodbye” in an interview with E! News, noting that she “was so sad.”
“It was almost unthinkable that she wouldn’t be here,” she added.
Even though Bush Hager appreciates Kotb, she has embraced her new solo venture, Today with Jenna & Friends. She mentioned that she has had the chance to work alongside 21 different individuals, making it an exciting journey.
Bush Hager also reflected on how the new show has brought her team closer together. She expressed her admiration for her colleagues and her love for the work environment. She highlighted the importance of expressing love and appreciation to those around you.
Kotb’s last day, deemed a “Hoda-bration,” was an emotional one for both her and Bush Hager, and even featured a visit from Today alum Kathie Lee Gifford.
According to Bush Hager, Kotb is “giving feedback” and praising her for being “so supportive.”
“You all know Hoda, she’s like the most supportive, amazing force,” she highlighted. “But she definitely is like, ‘OK, that was great’ or ‘This is great.’ She definitely has opinions, which I love. I care about what she thinks.”
Just this week, Kotb made a surprise appearance to lend some advice to Bush Hager’s husband Henry Hager, who was a guest co-host on the show’s Family Week. However, when it comes to the roster of guest co-hosts, Bush Hager’s sister Barbara has a favorite.
“I loved Dwyane Wade before and then he was excellent,” Barbara shared. “He and sissy had a great dynamic.”
Bush Hager agreed that Wade “was so much fun and kind of unexpected,” and noted that he is “really soulful and super curious.”
“I was kind of surprised by how much fun we had together. I also love Scarlett Johansson,” she added.
Check out some of Decider’s best guesses as to who should replace Kotb.
Today with Jenna & Friends airs on weekdays at 10/9c on NBC.
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