Hoda Kotb surprises Jenna Bush Hager backstage at ‘Today Show’

Hoda Kotb surprised her former Today Show co-host Jenna Bush Hager backstage ahead of the morning meeting on March 11. 

The heartfelt reunion was captured on video and shared on the Today with Jenna & Friends Instagram and TikTok accounts.

Bush Hager, 43, was thrilled to see Kotb, 60, walking into the makeup and dressing room. “What is happening?! What is happening?! I FaceTimed you today,” she exclaimed, before sharing a sweet hug with Kotb.

Kotb told Bush Hager, “I know. I had to come in for a second,” and praised her current guest co-host Dwyane Wade, saying, “You’re crushing it! You’re so good.”

The surprise visit was a delight for the Today team, with the caption reading, “We had the best surprise in our briefing meeting this morning!! @hodakotb dropped in to show her love and support for @jennabhager and @dwyanewade #JennaandFriends.”

Kotb announced her departure from the show in September 2024 after 17 years. She has been enjoying her time away from the show, spending more time with her daughters Haley Joy, 9, and Hope Catherine, 5.

In a recent interview with People magazine, Kotb expressed her excitement to find out who will be Bush Hager’s permanent co-host on Today with Jenna & Friends. 

“I’m dying to find out who it’s going to be,” she said. “I’ve been talking with Jenna about it. I keep saying, ‘Who’s going to be our friend forever?’ “

Kotb praised Bush Hager’s “mega talent” and ability to connect with her guest co-hosts. 

“It was always clear to me, but it’s even clearer because now I’m watching her have blind dates every week with new co-hosts, and the common thread is how awesome she is,” Kotb said. “She’s incredible. So whoever she chooses is going to be great with her.”