Jenna Bush Hager just told us how extremely freakin’ close she is with Hoda Kotb. She articulated the way she’s made to feel all the time, like a “third wheel” when Andy Cohen guest co-hosts on “Today.” In an appearance on Today with Jenna & Friends, Hager opened up. She shared her love for Kotb and her deep wish to be in touch more regularly.
Hoda Kotb, 56, has been a staple on “Today” for nearly two decades and continues her morning routine by waking up at 4:30 AM. Meanwhile Jenna Bush Hager, 43, said she wished she could talk to Kotb every day of the week. Hager admitted it can be difficult given their schedules, but expressed that it’s worth it to have that friendship.
On the April 22 broadcast, new co-host Andy Cohen sat down with Hager and they talked about Kotb’s soon-to-be-leaving-the-show Hager. Hager was more candid yet when she told us how she felt when Cohen showed up. Her comedic skepticism about being “on a triple date?” was matched by her delight at seeing everyone else enjoy the magic of Kotb.
“I talk to Hoda all the time. Not enough.” – Jenna Bush Hager
Hager further elaborated on her admiration for Kotb, saying, “I’d like to talk to her every day if I could and that’s what I had, but the thing is, and this is the thing about Hoda, she still wakes up at 4:30 in the morning, which is insane.”
Kotb has announced that she will be leaving “Today” in September 2024 to spend more time with her family. She posted her decision on her blog and as an open letter to the NBC staff. The announcement signals a new chapter both in her career and personal life.
Cohen dished on his friendship with Kotb. He was clear that even if they don’t speak much these days, there’s absolutely “no beef” between them. His remarks underscored the affection between the threesome, as well as the respect they’ve developed for each other over the years.