Jenna Bush Hager’s Heart Was ‘Closed Off’ After Hoda Kotb’s ‘Today’ Exit originally appeared on Parade. Jenna Bush Hager shut down emotionally after her Today show cohost Hoda Kotb left the program earlier this year.

Jenna Bush Hager surprised Today viewers on Aug. 6 with her admission that she’s already thinking about her “next chapter” beyond her current TV gig. The 43-year-old host shared her honest thoughts with guest co-host Matt Rogers about what she hopes the next stage of her life looks like — and it’s not in New

Bush Hager cried again in a video message aired during Kotb’s final Today episode on January 10. “Thank you, Hoda, for everything you have taught me, everything you’ve given me, all the hugs, all the heart, all the laughs, all the love. I will miss you, my friend, but I love you and I’m so proud. Love always and forever, Jenna.”