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.
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
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
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.
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.