Sheinelle Jones, a co-anchor on NBC’s Today show, is taking a leave of absence to address a family health matter. Jones shared the news on Instagram on Wednesday morning, and her co-anchors, Savannah Guthrie and Craig Melvin, addressed her absence at the beginning of the 8 a.m. hour. Guthrie acknowledged viewers’ concerns and expressed the cast’s support for Jones, saying, “We know so many of you have been asking about Sheinelle and missing her, and we miss her too.” Melvin added, “Sheinelle, we all love you and we are so looking forward to having you back.”
Jones has been a part of the Today show team for over a decade, initially joining the weekend edition in 2014. In 2019, she became a co-host of the show’s third hour, working alongside Dylan Dreyer, Craig Melvin, and other NBC News talent.
Jones’ absence from the show in recent weeks had led to speculation among viewers. This leave coincides with a period of significant transition for the Today show cast.
Craig Melvin officially began his role as lead co-anchor on Monday, joining Savannah Guthrie at the main anchor desk. Melvin’s promotion followed Hoda Kotb’s announcement last year that she would be departing the show.
Kotb’s departure also impacted the fourth hour of Today, which she co-hosted with Jenna Bush Hager. The program has been temporarily renamed Today With Jenna & Friends and features rotating guest hosts while NBC searches for a permanent co-host for Bush Hager. Kotb concluded her time on the show on Friday and will transition to a different role within NBC News. Her final day was marked by an emotional farewell.
