Jenna Bush Hager to replace Kathie Lee Gifford as co-host of ‘Today’ show
This Jan. 28, 2019 photo released by NBC shows Hoda Kotb, left, and Jenna Bush Hager during the fourth hour of the "Today" show in New York. NBC appointed Bush Hager as permanent co-host of the "Today" show's fourth hour with Kotb, replacing Kathie Lee Gifford in April. Kotb and Gifford were successful pioneers in expanding "Today," with an irreverent hour where glasses of wine were often kept close by. (Nathan Congleton/NBC via AP)
NEW YORK — Jenna Bush Hager better get her wine glass ready.
NBC appointed her Tuesday as co-host of the “Today” show’s fourth hour with Hoda Kotb, and she’ll replace Kathie Lee Gifford in that role in April.
Kotb and Gifford were successful pioneers in expanding “Today,” with an irreverent hour where glasses of wine were often kept close by.
The daughter of former President George W. Bush has been with the “Today” show for a decade in various roles. NBC News President Noah Oppenheim says in a memo to staff that her compassion and curiosity comes through in all her stories, along with a Texas-sized sense of humor.
The “Today” show’s competitor, ABC’s “Good Morning America,” has also expanded beyond the early-morning hours.
