Sheinelle Jones named 'TODAY' fourth-hour co-host alongside Jenna Bush Hager

The "TODAY" show announced on Tuesday that Sheinelle Jones will co-host the fourth hour of the network’s flagship morning show alongside Jenna Bush Hager

The "TODAY" show announced on Tuesday that Sheinelle Jones will co-host the fourth hour of the network’s flagship morning show alongside Jenna Bush Hager.

Bush Hager said that Jones, 47, will join her on the newly-named TODAY with Jenna & Sheinelle. On Jan. 12, Sheinelle will become the fourth hour’s first permanent co-host since Hoda Kotb departed the show.

"This marks an exciting new chapter for the fourth hour,” TODAY executive vice president Libby Leist and Jenna & Friends executive producer Talia Parkinson-Jones said in a statement. "Jenna and Sheinelle are two extraordinary talents who have grown within the ranks of TODAY. They are beloved for their authenticity, warmth and genuine connection with our TODAY audience."

The announcement comes nearly a year after the departure of Hoda Kotb, a beloved mainstay of NBC News’ "TODAY" for almost two decades, in January. Kotb has remained at NBC in various roles, including hosting "TODAY's" podcast "Making Space" and co-anching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Since Kotb's departure, Bush Hager has invited a long list of celebrities to co-host the fourth hour of "TODAY" with her. Those who co-hosted "Jenna and Friends" include: Michelle Obama, Tyra Banks, Andy Cohen, Scarlett Johansson and Jones.