Scarlett Johansson’s transition marks the start of a new chapter for the show, though many netizens have expressed mixed reactions to this unexpected move.
Scarlett Johansson, renowned for her roles in “Black Widow” and “Marriage Story,” is stepping into a surprising new role as she joins Jenna Bush Hager on “Today with Jenna & Friends” starting January 21. The announcement has sparked confusion among social media users.
A netizen’s comment about Scarlett Johansson as a guest host on “Today with Jenna & Friends,” posted on January 7, 2025 | Source: Instagram.com/people
Bush Hager announced the news, calling Johansson’s involvement a “wild dream.” “Scarlett Johansson is the queen! First of all, I’ve been obsessed with her movies since forever,” she said. “She’s also a big reader, which will be so much fun. We have so much in common.”
A netizen’s remark about Scarlett Johansson as a guest host on “Today with Jenna & Friends,” posted on January 7, 2025 | Source: Instagram.com/people
The program’s new format follows Hoda Kotb’s departure on January 10. Producers introduced a rotating lineup of celebrity co-hosts to bring fresh perspectives before Johansson’s arrival. Stars like Taraji P. Henson, Eva Longoria, and Keke Palmer will join Bush Hager in the weeks leading up to Johansson’s debut.
Scarlett Johansson attends the “Sing 2” premiere in Los Angeles on December 12, 2021 | Source: Getty Images
Bush Hager emphasized the importance of featuring guests from diverse fields, saying the show aims to represent its audience and offer something for everyone. “And I think that really is what we’re hoping to have: a total representation of who watches our show and something for every viewer,” she explained.
A netizen’s remark about Scarlett Johansson as a guest host on “Today with Jenna & Friends,” posted on January 7, 2025 | Source: Facebook.com/peoplemag
The announcement sparked a wave of reactions online. Some viewers criticized the decision, with one declaring, “Well I will never watch this now.” Others expressed confusion, “Weird choice,” while another added, “mmm 🤔 doesn’t make sense but ok [sic]!”
Some netizens criticized the show’s decision, citing perceived casting biases, while others questioned Johansson’s shift from action films to hosting.
Still, some fans embraced the news. “Great choice, looking forward to it,” one viewer wrote. Another highlighted her likability, seeing her hosting debut as a positive addition to the show. Others praised Johansson’s personality and predicted she would excel.
A netizen’s remark about Scarlett Johansson as a guest host on “Today with Jenna & Friends,” posted on January 7, 2025 | Source: Facebook.com/thedailybeast
As Johansson gears up for her debut, “Today” audiences are still coming to terms with Kotb’s forthcoming exit from the show. To honor Kotb’s time on the show, producers organized a week-long “Hoda-bration” that would conclude with an emotional farewell episode.
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Bush Hager reflected on Kotb’s impending departure, calling her “the best” and “generous partner.” She admitted that the transition feels bittersweet.
Hoda Kotb and Jenna Bush Hager on Today on November 21, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
“Obviously, I’ve had months to wrap my head around it, although I cannot promise that our last Hoda-bration won’t also be filled with tears. I’m sure it will be just because I can’t help it,” said Bush Hager.
Although emotional, Bush Hager conveyed her excitement and nervousness for the show’s future.
