Sheinelle Jones, the beloved co-host of the third hour of Today, announced on Wednesday
that she will be taking an extended break from the morning show to handle a serious family health matter.
While the 46-year-old journalist has not publicly disclosed the exact nature of the issue, sources close to her have revealed that the situation is “serious.”
Importantly, Jones clarified that the health concern does not involve herself or her immediate family.
She and her husband, Uche Ojeh, have three children: Kayin, 14, and 12-year-old twins Clara and Uche.
A source told People that Sheinelle appreciates the support she has received from her fans and colleagues during this sensitive time.
“Sheinelle is especially grateful for her tight-knit Today show family and co-hosts, for all their love during a sensitive time,” the insider shared.
A Note from Sheinelle Jones
In her own words, Jones took to social media to express her gratitude and inform her followers of the personal matter that led to her absence. “I sincerely appreciate all of you who have reached out while I’ve been absent from the show. I want to share with you that I’m taking time to deal with a family health matter,” she wrote. She also conveyed how fortunate she feels to have the support of both her professional and personal networks. “It’s not lost on me how lucky I am to have not only the support of my Today show family, but to also have all of you,” she added. “Your kindness means so much to me. I’ll see you soon.”
Her absence has certainly been felt by both viewers and her co-workers. Today show stars have expressed their well-wishes and support in response to her message. Savannah Guthrie, co-host of Today, wrote in the comments section, “We love you so. not the same without you. we will see you soon.” Meanwhile, Craig Melvin also shared his love, saying, “We all love you and we are so looking forward to having you back.” Jenna Bush Hager, another co-host of Today, sent a heartfelt message, calling Sheinelle a “queen” and adding, “You are LOVED beyond measure! Wrapping our arms around you, always.”
The Extended Absence from the Show
Jones, who has been a fixture on Today since 2014, has been noticeably absent from the program since December 18, 2023. Her absence was particularly noted when she missed Today co-host Hoda Kotb’s farewell show on January 10, 2024. This led to some concerned fans taking to social media to express their worry. One fan posted, “Not even a recorded piece from @SheinelleJones on the @TODAYshow for @hodakotb’s last day?! Seems odd. Hope she’s ok.” Another added, “I loved the HODA bration but really wondered why Sheinelle Jones wasn’t among the cast?”
Despite her break from Today, Jones’ career is continuing to move forward in other areas. She is preparing to release her upcoming book, Through Mom’s Eyes, which draws inspiration from her Today segment where she interviews celebrities’ mothers about raising successful children. In August 2023, Jones discussed how the writing process helped her gain new insights into her own mother, explaining, “Even while I was writing this, there were times that were really tough… I’m going through my own thing and I’m like, ‘You know what? She was able to push through that and motherhood didn’t stop.’”
A Heartfelt Support System
Though Sheinelle’s health matter has placed her on a temporary leave from Today, the support from her colleagues and fans alike highlights the strong relationships she has built over the years. Her “Today” co-hosts have consistently expressed their affection and concern for her during this time, underscoring the close-knit nature of the Today show family.
As for when she will return, no specific timeline has been revealed, but Jones reassured her fans that she is taking the time she needs to focus on her family. “I’ll see you soon,” she wrote in her message, leaving fans hopeful that they will soon get to see her back on the air.
While the details surrounding the health matter remain private, Sheinelle Jones’ heartfelt message to her fans and the support she has received from her Today family are a testament to the love and appreciation surrounding her. Fans will undoubtedly continue to keep her in their thoughts as she navigates this challenging personal time.
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