Sheinelle Jones, beloved co-host of *Today*, has taken to social media to explain her recent absence from the popular morning show.
Fans had noticed her lack of appearances on the program since mid-December, prompting many to wonder about the reason behind her time away.
On January 15, the 46-year-old TV personality shared a heartfelt message on Instagram, revealing that she has been away to handle a “family health matter.”
“I sincerely appreciate all of you who reached out while I’ve been absent from the show,” Jones wrote in her post.
“I want to share with you that I’m taking time to deal with a family health matter.”
While she expressed her gratitude for the support from fans and colleagues, she did not provide further details about when she plans to return to the program.
“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 continued. “Your kindness means so much to me. I’ll see you soon.”
Jones’ absence became especially apparent in early January, when fans on social media expressed confusion over why she wasn’t present during a key episode of the show. January 10 marked the final appearance of co-anchor Hoda Kotb, leading some viewers to question why Jones wasn’t featured in any recorded segments or special tributes to Kotb. “Not even a recorded piece from @SheinelleJones on the @TODAYshow for @hodakotb’s last day?! Seems odd. Hope she’s ok,” one fan tweeted. Another commented, “@TODAYshow can you tell us where Sheinelle Jones is? So odd she is missing the #Hoda K’s farewell!”
Despite the curiosity surrounding her absence, Jones’ fans were quick to show their love and support, expressing their concern while respecting her need for privacy during a challenging time. According to a source who spoke with *People*, the health matter is “serious,” but it is not related to Jones or her immediate family, which includes her husband Uche Ojeh and their children: Kayin, 14, and twins Clara and Uche, 12. The source added that Jones has been especially touched by the support she’s received from her *Today* family and co-hosts. “She’s especially grateful for her tight-knit *Today* show family and co-hosts, for all their love during a sensitive time,” the source said.
Jones’ absence was met with an outpouring of support from her colleagues at *Today*. Co-host Jenna Bush Hager wrote in the comments on Jones’ Instagram post, “You are a queen and are LOVED beyond measure! Wrapping our arms around you, always.” Savannah Guthrie, another *Today* anchor, expressed similar sentiments, saying, “We love you so. Not the same without you. We will see you soon.” Former co-anchor Hoda Kotb, who had her own farewell earlier in January, also reached out, writing, “We love you… you are being held… you are family xoxo.”
Jones, who first joined *Today* in 2014, is best known for co-hosting the 3rd Hour of *Today* with Dylan Dreyer, Al Roker, and Craig Melvin. During her time on the show, she has earned a reputation for her warm and engaging personality, quickly becoming a fan favorite. Outside of her work on *Today*, Jones is also preparing to release her debut book, *Through Mom’s Eyes*, on April 15, 2025. The book will feature lessons and wisdom from famous mothers, including those of celebrities like Steph Curry, Shaquille O’Neal, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Lady Gaga, Matthew McConaughey, the Jonas Brothers, Tyra Banks, and Serena and Venus Williams. Jones has shared her excitement for the upcoming release, calling it “my love letter to mothers.”
The book will also include insights from Jones’ own personal journey, sharing stories from her childhood in Kansas to her career at *Today*. In September 2023, Jones posted about her book on Instagram, saying, “It truly is my love letter to mothers. I also talk a lot about my journey – from growing up in Kansas to the *Today* show.”
As Jones navigates this difficult time, her fans continue to offer their support, eagerly awaiting her return to *Today*. While the details of her family health matter remain private, there is no doubt that Jones has a strong community behind her, from her *Today* colleagues to her devoted viewers. We all look forward to welcoming her back when the time is right.
Follow us to see more useful information, as well as to give us more motivation to update more useful information for you.
