Carson Daly, a longtime feature anchor on NBC’s Today show, shared his thoughts on who might join Jenna Bush Hager as a cohost for the program’s fourth hour. Speaking on August 18 in New York City, Daly confirmed that while the selection process is ongoing, Scarlett Johansson will not be joining as a permanent cohost due to budget reasons. This insight sheds light on the continuing transition following Hoda Kotb’s departure from the show earlier this year.
Rotating Hosts to Continue on ‘Today With Jenna & Friends’
Since Hoda Kotb ended her 17-year tenure in January 2024, Jenna Bush Hager relaunched the fourth hour segment, previously named Today With Hoda & Jenna, into Today With Jenna & Friends. This format features a rotating group of cohosts rather than a fixed replacement. Daly noted,
“I think they want to keep this rotating thing going,”
indicating the show’s preference for variety and freshness in the lineup.
The rotating cast has included notable personalities such as Dwayne Wade, Erin Andrews, Taraji P. Henson, Keke Palmer, and Amy Poehler, each bringing a unique energy to the segment. Daly praised many of these guests, saying,
“I loved Dwayne Wade. I thought he was awesome. Every time Erin Andrews is on, I’m like, ‘She’s amazing.’”
Scarlett Johansson’s Appeal and Cost
Despite Johansson’s popularity and talent, Daly clarified why she will not become a permanent cohost. As one of Hollywood’s highest-grossing actors, Johansson’s involvement comes with a significant financial commitment. Daly remarked,
“Scarlett Johansson is everybody’s favorite, but she happens to be Hollywood’s most expensive actor. We can’t afford her, but she loves doing it.”
This highlights the balance producers must manage between star power and budget constraints.
Jenna Bush Hager’s Positive Impact on the Show
Hoda Kotb expressed confidence in Jenna Bush Hager’s ability to lead the segment as it evolves. In Kotb’s farewell remarks in September 2024, she encouraged the next cohost to complement Bush Hager’s bright personality, stating,
“Whoever sits in this seat is going to have the easiest job in the world ‘cause they’re sitting next to you. The only thing they have to do is not laugh so hard they pee their pants. That’s it. They just have to hang on. You are this bright light, you always have been, and it’s your turn.”
Daly also showed enthusiasm for the rotating hosting model, sharing,
“Jenna’s had a lot of really good people. I kind of like the rotating cast. It keeps things fresh.”
Recognizing the Range of Talents On ‘Today’
In addition to Johansson, the rotating group of cohosts has featured a mix of entertainers and public figures who bring different experiences and styles to the show. These include former NBA star Dwayne Wade, sports broadcaster Erin Andrews, as well as actresses Taraji P. Henson, Keke Palmer, and Amy Poehler. Each has contributed to the show’s dynamic atmosphere, helping to maintain audience interest amid the period of transition.
Carson Daly’s Support Beyond ‘Today’
Outside his responsibilities on the Today show and his role hosting The Voice, Carson Daly remains active in supporting fellow entertainers. Recently, he expressed his excitement about Jeff Ross’ new Broadway one-man show, which chronicles Ross’ life journey through humor and personal storytelling. Daly commented,
“We’re excited to be here to support [Jeff] on this new venture in his life.”
Ross, known as the “Roastmaster General,” uses comedy as a way to cope with hardships including the loss of loved ones and his own health struggles. Ross shared,
“I keep a lot of funny people around to take the wind out of the sadness and cheer me up, and that’s the role comedians have in the world, and it’s very important, especially these days.”
He added poignantly about his late friend Norm Macdonald,
“My good friend Norm Macdonald kept his health battles a secret, and we didn’t get to give him a proper sendoff, so I wanted to let my friends know what’s happening with me and that I’m doing OK. Better than OK. I’m on Broadway!”
The Road Ahead for ‘Today With Jenna & Friends’
With the rotating slate approach continuing for the foreseeable future, Jenna Bush Hager’s fourth hour on Today remains a space for diverse personalities to join and bring new energy to the program. Although Scarlett Johansson will not become a permanent cohost due to financial considerations, Daly’s remarks underscore the show’s commitment to variety and freshness.
As the segment evolves without a permanent replacement for Hoda Kotb, viewers can expect a combination of celebrity guests and rising talents to keep the content engaging. Jenna Bush Hager’s role as the consistent host remains a key element in maintaining the show’s welcoming and lighthearted appeal.
