Fans asked, and Today listened! Willie Geist is set to join Today With Jenna & Friends as a guest co-host on Monday, February 17.
The news comes as viewers continue to express their desire for Geist to take on a more permanent role alongside Jenna Bush Hager.
Since Hoda Kotb’s departure from the fourth hour of Today on January 10, the show has been testing out different co-hosts before deciding on a permanent replacement.
Geist, 49, has long been a fan favorite, and his return to the morning show has been met with excitement.
Fans Rally Behind Willie Geist
Geist has filled in as a co-host for Today’s fourth hour multiple times, including a February 2023 episode where he won over audiences with his charm and wit.
Viewers have since been vocal about their desire to see him as a regular presence on the show.
The Today show’s official Instagram account has been flooded with fan requests, with many praising Geist’s journalistic skills, warm personality, and natural chemistry with Hager.
“Willie seems like such a kind person. I wish he was on during the week. His journalism is top notch,” one fan commented on a Today post.
Others echoed similar sentiments, with one viewer writing, “Love Jenna and Willie together!” while another described him as “smart, funny, and entertaining.”
Geist is no stranger to the Today family. In addition to his weekend hosting duties on Sunday Today With Willie Geist, he conducts in-depth celebrity interviews on his well-known Sunday Sitdowns segment. His ability to balance serious news coverage with lighthearted moments makes him a strong contender for the co-hosting role.
NBC Testing Out Multiple Guest Hosts
According to reports, NBC is taking a cautious approach to selecting Kotb’s replacement. A source previously told Closer Weekly that the network plans to rotate guest co-hosts before making a final decision.
“Willie Geist is a name that keeps getting mentioned,” the source revealed in November 2024. “He and Jenna get along great, he has a proven track record, and the fans seem to love him.”
While Geist remains a frontrunner, other well-known personalities are also being considered. Michelle Buteau, Justin Sylvester, and Michelle Collins have all been mentioned as potential candidates.
“The network bosses have said they’re going to take their time with making this decision, but they’re not going to let it drag on too long because there’s a risk that it could turn people off,” the source added.
More Guest Co-Hosts to Follow
Along with Geist’s highly anticipated appearance, Justin Sylvester, 38, will also be returning to co-host Today With Jenna & Friends from Tuesday, February 18, through Friday, February 21.
Fans of the show have already expressed their excitement about Sylvester’s return.
“My favorite mornings are with Justin & Jenna!!! Can’t wait to watch!” one Instagram user commented.
Another viewer praised Sylvester’s energy, writing, “So excited Justin Sylvester will be your host next week! He brings great energy & positivity to his work.”
Who Will Be Jenna Bush Hager’s Permanent Co-Host?
With Today carefully considering its options, fans will have to wait a bit longer to see who ultimately lands the coveted role. However, with Geist and Sylvester both stepping in, audiences can look forward to an entertaining lineup of guest hosts in the coming weeks.
For now, viewers will enjoy seeing Geist and Hager reunite on February 17, hoping that this guest-hosting stint could lead to something more permanent.
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