Scarlett Johansson surprised viewers by co-hosting the final hour of the Today Show for a week in January 2025. The actress filled in for Hoda Kotb, Jenna Bush Hager’s longtime co-host, who recently left the show. Johansson mentioned that being a morning television host was a childhood dream of hers.
Her husband, Colin Jost, is a writer and cast member at Saturday Night Live, which also airs on NBC, suggesting her guest-hosting gig might have been facilitated by her connections at the network. The actress performed well in her new role, showcasing her charisma and likability. She shared her hack for opening a pickle jar, reunited with her former co-star Topher Grace, and wore sensible slacks.
Johansson managed to fill viewers with a sense of relatability, despite some awkward moments. The Today Show, especially Hager’s hour, can be a surreal place for infrequent watchers. Hager seemed absolutely bowled over by the coincidence of discovering that Johansson’s birthday is just three days before her own.
Johansson played along with it all and seemed genuinely happy to be there. The idea of Johansson, best known for her role as Marvel’s Black Widow, hosting a morning show may seem odd. However, the lines between movie stardom and television hosting are blurring.
Johansson’s childhood dream fulfilled
The old rules simply don’t matter anymore, and if hot young things can endorse all kinds of products, there’s no reason why Johansson shouldn’t replace Kotb. Event planner and designer Jove Meyer shared essential tips for arranging stunning flower bouquets on the show.
In a special segment, Jenna Bush Hager and guest co-host Scarlett Johansson faced off in an exciting bouquet battle, showcasing their creativity and skills in floristry. Meyer’s key tips include starting with the vase, building a strong base with greenery, layering flowers from large to small, balancing colors, trimming stems at an angle, and rotating the arrangement for balance. By following these expert tips, anyone can create a beautiful and professional-looking flower bouquet.
Johansson joined Bush Hager as a guest co-host for the week on “Jenna & Friends,” providing an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at her first day. The actress explored the world of television co-hosting, fulfilling a childhood dream. The day began with filming the cold open, followed by final touchups in Bush Hager’s colorful dressing room.
Johansson praised the good vibe on the show, noting the fun atmosphere compared to her experiences publicizing projects on morning shows. Bush Hager complimented Johansson’s natural curiosity and good listening skills, essential qualities for the job. As the show wrapped up, the crew chanted “Scar-lett! Scar-lett!” visibly flattering the star, who quipped, “They don’t do this on movie sets!”
Bush Hager expressed her love for Johansson and the gracious, amazing feeling of having people show up and support her as she starts something new.
“Jenna & Friends” airs weekdays at 10:00 a.m. ET on NBC.
