7 Major New Chapters For Jenna Bush Hager: Career Shifts, A New Co-Host, And Her Publishing Empire In 2025-2026

Jenna Bush Hager is currently navigating one of the most transformative periods of her career on the *Today* show and beyond, with a series of significant announcements reshaping her professional and personal landscape as of December 2025. The biggest news dominating headlines is the official naming of her new permanent co-host for the fourth hour, a decision that ends the long-running "Jenna and Friends" era and signals a fresh start for the popular morning talk show. This major television update comes alongside a massive expansion of her influence in the literary world, cementing her legacy as a multifaceted media personality and author. The transition follows the departure of her longtime friend and co-host, Hoda Kotb, from the fourth hour, a change that sparked months of speculation about who would permanently fill the coveted seat beside the former First Daughter. The latest updates reveal that Hager is embracing a new co-host, a new publishing venture, and a continued focus on her growing family, all while maintaining her signature blend of warmth and authenticity that has endeared her to millions of viewers.

Jenna Bush Hager: Complete Biography and Profile

Jenna Welch Bush Hager is an American news personality, author, and journalist, best known for her role as a co-host on NBC's *Today* show.

• Full Name: Jenna Welch Bush Hager (née Bush)
• Date of Birth: November 25, 1981
• Age (as of December 2025): 44
• Place of Birth: Dallas, Texas
• Parents: George W. Bush (43rd U.S. President) and Laura Bush (Former First Lady)
• Sibling: Barbara Pierce Bush (Fraternal Twin Sister)
• Spouse: Henry Chase Hager (m. 2008)
• Children: Margaret "Mila" Laura Hager (b. 2013), Poppy Louise Hager (b. 2015), and Henry "Hal" Harold Hager (b. 2019)
• Education: University of Texas at Austin (B.A. in English)
• Early Career: Elementary School Teacher (Washington D.C., 2005)
• Current Role: Co-host of the fourth hour of the *Today* show (formerly *Today with Hoda & Jenna*), Founder of "Read with Jenna" Book Club, Editor-at-Large for *Southern Living*

The Dawn of *Today with Jenna & Sheinelle*

The biggest and most recent announcement for the *Today* show franchise is the naming of Sheinelle Jones as Jenna Bush Hager's new permanent co-host for the 10 a.m. hour. This move officially ends the show's transitional period, which was temporarily known as *Today with Jenna and Friends* following Hoda Kotb’s exit to focus on other projects.

The new pairing, set to launch in January 2026, will see the show rebranded as *Today with Jenna & Sheinelle*. The announcement was highly emotional for Hager, who expressed her excitement and deep connection with Jones, a familiar face to *Today* viewers as a co-anchor on the third hour. The decision solidifies the show's commitment to maintaining the lighthearted, conversational tone that made the fourth hour a massive success. The chemistry between Jenna and Sheinelle is already well-established, promising a smooth and energetic transition for the audience.

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The search for a permanent co-host had been a major topic of discussion among fans and media outlets for nearly a year after Kotb's departure. Hager often spoke about the process, noting that the rotating cast of guests, which included figures like Willie Geist, Maria Shriver, and Meredith Vieira, helped her recognize the importance of genuine connection. The selection of Jones, a beloved member of the NBC family, was met with widespread approval, signaling a new, stable chapter for the program.

Expanding Her Literary Empire: Books, Imprints, and Substack

Jenna Bush Hager is significantly expanding her influence far beyond the television screen, particularly in the publishing world, where she has established herself as a major tastemaker. This career diversification is a key focus for her in the 2025-2026 timeline.

The Launch of Thousand Voices Books

Hager announced a groundbreaking new venture: the launch of her own book imprint, Thousand Voices Books. This publishing house is set to release an ambitious slate of eight books between Fall 2025 and Fall 2026. This move shows a deep commitment to finding and amplifying new voices and diverse stories, a mission that aligns perfectly with her already successful book club. The first book under the new imprint, titled *Conform*, has already been announced, marking a new chapter in her role as a literary curator.

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The Power of "Read with Jenna"

The "Read with Jenna" Book Club remains one of the most influential book clubs in America, consistently driving literary fiction and non-fiction titles onto bestseller lists. Her 2025 picks have continued this trend, with selections like *The Names* by Florence Knapp being hailed as a powerful and emotional read. The October 2025 pick, *The Irish Goodbye* by Heather Aimee O'Neill, further demonstrates her commitment to high-quality literary fiction. The book club is an essential component of her brand, reflecting her English degree background and passion for storytelling.

Voices at the Table Substack

Adding another layer to her media presence, Hager also launched a new Substack newsletter called "Voices at the Table." This platform allows her to connect directly with her audience on a more personal level, sharing insights, recommendations, and behind-the-scenes stories related to her work, family, and literary discoveries. This digital expansion is a strategic move to build a stronger community around her brand and increase her topical authority in the media and literary spaces.

Personal Life and Family Milestones in 2025

Despite her demanding professional schedule, Jenna Bush Hager continues to share heartwarming glimpses into her family life with husband Henry Chase Hager and their three children: Mila, Poppy, and Hal.

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• Family Vacation: Hager recently shared personal photos from a family vacation to Rome, Italy, highlighting the importance of spending quality time with her husband and kids amidst their busy lives.
• Birthday Surprise: For her 44th birthday in November 2025, her husband, Henry Hager, surprised her by co-hosting the holiday shows, a rare and delightful appearance that charmed viewers. Henry, a former White House aide and now a businessman, often takes a backseat to his wife's public career, making his on-screen appearances a special treat.
• Home Base: The family's move from New York City to a suburban property in Connecticut in 2022 has provided a more grounded environment for their three children to grow up. Hager often speaks about the joys and challenges of raising her young family, including her daughters Mila (12) and Poppy (9), and son Hal (5).

From the excitement of a new co-host to the launch of an entire publishing imprint, Jenna Bush Hager's professional and personal life is entering a dynamic and influential new phase. She continues to be a central figure in morning television, all while carving out a powerful legacy in the world of books and literature.