Sheinelle Jones shares big Oprah-style dreams for her new chapter on ‘Today’

Sheinelle Jones is getting ready to enter into a new chapter of her television career as co-host of Jenna and Sheinelle, bringing with her years of experience, personal development, and inspiration gained from one of the most influential personalities in talk-show history.

As she looks ahead to the position, Jones says she isn’t attempting to replicate anyone else’s legacy—but she does admit the influence Oprah Winfrey has had on her knowledge of connection and storytelling.

"We all have Oprah [Winfrey] on a pedestal, no one can be Oprah, why would you even want to try?" Jones stated in an interview on Today Show Radio on Sirius XM. "I think the times are different now, like it's not just where you turn on [the television] at four o' clock."

Carrying Life Lessons Into a Changing Media World

Jones described that while television and media consumption have developed, the lessons viewers once received from Winfrey’s long-running talk show still matter today.

"What I know to be true is if I am ever abducted in a car I have to hurry up and get out because he's know he's probably gonna hurt me, I learned that from Oprah! I also learned that a good bra makes it different when you put on a shirt, I learned that from Oprah!" she cited. "And so what does that look like in 2025 or 2026 when we we're all so busy we all have social media, there's Chat GPT, but there's a point of connection that I still believe exists when you sit down and you connect with someone on a screen sometimes who is giving you something everyday you tune in...but you leave feeling better."

For Jones, the challenge and the opportunity is in creating that sense of comfort and bond in this digital phase.

"Whatever that looks like in 2026, where you're part of the popular lexicon of how to be better, that is my goal," she further said.

Stepping Into Today’s Fourth Hour

Jones’ latest position as the permanent co-host of Today’s fourth hour along with Jenna Bush Hager was revealed recently and signifies a major milestone in her career. The move arrived following years on the show’s third hour, where Jones became a familiar and beloved presence for audiences.

However, the change follows a challenging period in her personal life.

Moving Forward After Profound Loss

The announcement of Jones’ expanded position arrives months after she lost her husband, Uche Ojeh, after his battle with cancer. Jones has talked candidly in regard to how grief has changed her outlook on life and purpose.

"I think now more than ever, for me, I recognize that tomorrow isn't promised but what you can do is squeeze the most you can out of the days that you have," she stated. "And however I can be that point of connection to help someone else do that and also celebrate people who help us to do that, that's what I'm here for."

An Emotional Goodbye to the Third Hour

Jones’ time on Today’s third hour had a heartfelt conclusion during a prerecorded Friday, January 2 episode, which signaled her final presence with the team before moving to her new position on January 12.

Her co-hosts tributed her by reflecting on shared memories and moments that went beyond the studio.

Words of Friendship and Laughter

Dylan Dreyer shared her admiration for Jones, explaining a friendship established on years of genuine laughter and support.

“You have become such a dear friend of mine in the best way possible. My laughter around you is so genuine, and you have just been such an amazing friend to me for so many years. I mean, years and years and years. So, I want to remind you about this,” Dreyer stated.

She then played a video from a November 2018 Today segment where the two tried to teach each other golf and dance, making the moment so funny it became iconic behind the scenes.

“Our camera operators were laughing so hard the camera was shaking,” Dreyer remembered.

“The laughter started before then, and that was just one of many times that I’ve just fallen on the floor laughing with you. So, thank you for your friendship,” she further said.

“Once a Nonsense Girl, Always One”

Jones wrapped the moment with humor and gratitude, referencing the affectionate nickname offered to the third-hour hosts.

“It has been my honor to be a part of the nonsense people. I mean, you know you’ve made it when you get a cartoon that calls us the nonsense people,” she stated, referencing Family Guy’s 2022 nod to the team.
“And once a nonsense girl, always one, so you’re not getting rid of me.”

She concluded by addressing audiences directly.

“To you guys at home, thank you so much for all of it, for scaffolding me and the kids. We come in and we laugh, and we’re genuinely laughing. We tear up, like now. This has been one of the rides of my life, with you guys.”

FAQs:

1. Who is Sheinelle Jones?
Sheinelle Jones is a television journalist and co-host on NBC’s Today show. She is popular for her warmth, authenticity, and narrative.

2. What is her new role on Today?
Jones is becoming the co-host of Today’s fourth hour. She will appear along with Jenna Bush Hager.