Jenna Bush Hager’s 5 Biggest Career Moves Of 2025: New Co-Host, Hallmark Debut, And Bestseller Secrets Revealed

Jenna Bush Hager remains one of the most recognizable and beloved figures in American media, and as of late 2024 and early 2025, her career is hitting a dynamic new chapter. The former First Daughter has seamlessly transitioned from a White House resident to a celebrated author, journalist, and television personality, constantly evolving her public role. This year, she’s making major headlines with a significant shift in her morning show role, a brand-new book release, and even a surprise acting debut that has fans buzzing. The latest buzz revolves around her flagship NBC program, which has undergone a major transformation in the wake of her longtime co-host’s departure. The show is now embracing a fresh format, allowing Jenna to showcase her versatility and warm interviewing style alongside a rotating cast of friends and a newly announced permanent co-host, solidifying her status as a powerhouse in daytime television.

Jenna Bush Hager: Comprehensive Biography and Profile

Jenna Welch Bush Hager was born on November 25, 1981, and is an American news personality, author, and journalist. She is most widely known as the co-host of the fourth hour of NBC's *Today* show and as the daughter of the 43rd U.S. President, George W. Bush, and former First Lady Laura Bush.

• Full Name: Jenna Welch Bush Hager (née Bush)
• Date of Birth: November 25, 1981
• Birthplace: Dallas, Texas, U.S.
• Parents: George W. Bush (Father), Laura Bush (Mother)
• Sibling: Barbara Pierce Bush (Twin Sister)
• Spouse: Henry Chase Hager (m. 2008)
• Children: Mila, Poppy, and Hal
• Education: University of Texas at Austin (B.A. in English)
• Career Highlights: Teacher, Contributing Correspondent for *Today* (2009), Co-host of *Today with Hoda & Jenna* (2019-2025), Founder of "Read With Jenna" book club (2019), *New York Times* Bestselling Author.
• Notable Works: *Ana's Story: A Journey of Hope*, *Sisters First: Stories from Our Wild and Wonderful Life* (with Barbara Pierce Bush), *The Superpower Sisterhood*.

Jenna's early career began as a teacher in Washington, D.C., and later in Baltimore. Her transition into journalism started in 2009 when she became a contributing correspondent for the *Today* show, a role that eventually led to her taking over the fourth hour alongside Hoda Kotb in 2019. Her unique blend of political background, educational experience, and genuine warmth has made her a relatable and influential voice in the media landscape.

The Major 2025 Shake-Up: A New Era for Morning Television

The biggest news surrounding Jenna Bush Hager in early 2025 is the dramatic shift in her morning show, previously known as *Today with Hoda & Jenna*. Following Hoda Kotb's departure from the fourth hour in January 2025, the program was temporarily retitled *Today with Jenna & Friends*, featuring a rotation of guest hosts. This period of transition generated significant curiosity among fans and media observers. The "Friends" format allowed Jenna to demonstrate her ability to steer the show and maintain its light, engaging tone with a variety of personalities, including Scarlett Johansson and Olivia Munn.

Sheinelle Jones Named Permanent Co-Host

The speculation finally ended when Jenna Bush Hager announced the new permanent co-host for the show: Sheinelle Jones. Jones, a familiar face from the *Today* show's third hour, officially joined Jenna in early 2025, marking the beginning of a new, highly anticipated partnership. The move was celebrated by fans who appreciated the chemistry between the two women during their guest-hosting stints. The new pairing of Jenna Bush Hager and Sheinelle Jones is seen as a fresh, energetic reboot for the popular daytime talk show, ensuring its continued relevance and high ratings. The new dynamic promises more laughter, deeper conversations, and a seamless transition from the beloved Hoda-Jenna era.

From Bestselling Author to Hallmark Star: Jenna's 2025 Projects

Beyond her work on NBC, Jenna Bush Hager is expanding her creative portfolio with two major projects slated for 2025, further solidifying her status as a multi-talented media personality. Her commitment to literature and her venture into acting showcase her dedication to diverse storytelling.

A Highly Anticipated New Book: 'I Loved You First'

As the founder of the wildly popular "Read With Jenna" book club, which has launched numerous titles to bestseller status, Jenna is a major force in the literary world. In March 2025, she is set to release her own new book, *I Loved You First*. The book is already generating excitement, with pre-orders available and fans eager to see what narrative Jenna will weave this time. Her previous works, including the memoir *Sisters First* with her twin sister Barbara Pierce Bush, have resonated deeply with readers, making *I Loved You First* one of the most anticipated releases of the year. This new publication reinforces her literary brand and her passion for connecting with audiences through compelling stories.

Jenna’s Surprise Hallmark Movie Debut

In a move that caught many fans by surprise, Jenna Bush Hager is making her acting debut in a Hallmark holiday movie. The film, titled *Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs*, was announced around her birthday and is set to feature the morning show host in a new, exciting role. This venture into acting highlights Jenna's willingness to step outside her comfort zone and embrace new challenges. For a network known for its wholesome, feel-good content, Jenna's genuine and warm public persona makes her a perfect fit. The announcement generated significant social media buzz, with fans expressing their excitement to see her on the big screen, particularly in a festive, family-friendly setting.

The Enduring Influence of "Read With Jenna"

The "Read With Jenna" book club, which Jenna founded in 2019, continues to be one of the most influential book clubs in the country. It has become a crucial platform for launching new authors and diverse narratives into the mainstream, often propelling its selections onto the *New York Times* bestseller list. The club's success is a testament to Jenna's genuine love for reading and her ability to connect with a vast audience on a personal level. The book club is more than just a list of recommended reads; it’s a community. It fosters a love of literature and encourages deep, thoughtful discussions about complex themes, from family dynamics and historical fiction to contemporary issues. This ongoing project is arguably one of the most powerful and enduring aspects of Jenna Bush Hager's career, cementing her legacy as a literary tastemaker. Jenna Bush Hager’s path in 2025 is defined by growth, new partnerships, and creative expansion. From anchoring a new era of her morning show with Sheinelle Jones to releasing a new book and stepping into an acting role, she continues to prove that her influence extends far beyond her famous family name. Her career trajectory is a compelling blend of journalism, literature, and entertainment, promising a very exciting year for her dedicated fans and followers.