‘AWKWARD’ Jenna Bush Hager called out for ‘tone deaf’ comment to Sheinelle Jones as Today co-hosts’ relationship appears ‘tense’
JENNA Bush Hager has been accused of acting insensitive while her Today co-host Sheinelle Jones told an emotional story on live TV.
The longtime Today anchor, 44, seemed to interrupt Sheinelle‘s story about discovering her wedding dress in an old suitcase less than a year after her husband Uche Ojeh’s tragic death at 45.
On the May 14 episode of Today with Jenna and Sheinelle during the morning show’s fourth hour, Sheinelle got choked up speaking about the heart-wrenching find in her basement as the family prepares for a big move.
“I found this old suitcase, and I unzipped it, and it was my wedding dress,” said Sheinelle.
“I remember everybody telling me that you’re supposed to get them preserved and I didn’t. I remember Uche and I took pictures all over the streets of Philadelphia so the bottom of it is dirty.”
Jenna did show her support for Sheinelle, claiming she looked “beautiful” as photos of her co-host’s wedding day flashed on the screen behind their table.
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But she then discussed a recent story about her own wedding dress, which she wore during her nuptials to husband Henry in 2008.
“I wanted to do this party, which I think we should still do,” Jenna said.
“It’s called ’Seven year itch.’ Everybody wears their wedding dress. Mine won’t fit so I guess I have to go to, like, vintage or David’s Bridal or whatever.
“At my seven-year anniversary, I said, ‘Mom, where is my wedding dress?’ She said, ‘I have it.’ I said, “I want to try it on because I want to do this party.’ She was like, ‘OK, sure, we can try it on.’ It didn’t fit!”
Many Today viewers thought Jenna pivoted too fast to her own wedding, when Sheinelle was clearly reliving a difficult time in her life. (Uche died after a brave fight with brain cancer in May 2025.)
“Jenna really needs someone to tell her not to interrupt Sheinelle constantly,” one Today viewer fumed. “Or the comparison stuff. Sheinelle finding her wedding dress after her husband died is not the equivalent of Jenna looking for hers.”
“I think thats pretty tone deaf of Jenna to make Sheinelle’s husband’s death about herself,” chimed in another.
“It’s quite condescending,” said a third.
In recent months, fans have pointed out tension between the two co-hosts, who officially started working side by side on the fourth hour in December 2025.
In April, Jenna appeared to snap at Jenna during a conversation about Practical Magic.
On the same episode, Jenna corrected Sheinelle during a conversation with guest Victoria Beckham.
“I’m convinced Jenna hates Sheinelle,” one viewed observed.
