Sheinelle Jones, a familiar face on NBC’s *Today* show, has addressed her recent absence from the morning program, providing fans with an update on her situation.
The 46-year-old anchor, who has been a co-host on *Today’s* 3rd Hour for the past six years,
took to Instagram this week to explain the reason behind her time away from the show.
In a heartfelt post, Sheinelle shared that she has been stepping back to focus on a “family health matter.”
Although it has been several weeks since viewers last saw Sheinelle on *Today*, her message reassured fans that she would be returning soon.
“Hi everybody… I sincerely appreciate all of you who have reached out while I’ve been absent from the show,” she began.
She acknowledged the concern and kindness from her followers, expressing deep gratitude for their support during this challenging time.
The anchor continued, “I want to share with you that I’m taking time to deal with a family health matter,” providing clarity about the personal situation that has kept her away. She emphasized how fortunate she feels to be surrounded by both the *Today* show team and the outpouring of support from her fans. “It’s not lost on me how lucky I am to have not only the support of my *Today* Show family, but also have all of you,” she wrote. She concluded her post with a note of appreciation for the ongoing love and encouragement, promising, “Your kindness means so much to me. I’ll see you soon.”
The post came after weeks of viewers expressing concern over Sheinelle’s absence from the show. Her fans had noticed her missing from regular segments and wondered about her whereabouts. She was notably absent on January 10, the last day of Hoda Kotb’s time on the show, as well as in any pre-recorded messages celebrating Hoda’s departure. This only heightened the worry among *Today* show fans, who took to social media to seek answers.
In response to the growing concerns, *Today* show co-hosts Savannah Guthrie and Craig Melvin addressed the situation on-air. Savannah, 53, shared Sheinelle’s update with viewers, stating, “We want to share some news about our friend Sheinelle.” She explained that Sheinelle had posted on Instagram, revealing she was taking time off due to a family health matter. Savannah also echoed Sheinelle’s gratitude for the outpouring of concern from the audience, adding, “She thanked everyone for their kindness and concern about her. So many of you have been asking about Sheinelle and missing her, and we miss her, too.”
Craig Melvin, 45, also expressed his affection for Sheinelle, saying, “Sheinelle, we all love you and we are so looking forward to having you back.” His words reinforced the camaraderie among the *Today* team and the collective hope for Sheinelle’s swift return to the program.
Viewers who had been wondering about Sheinelle’s whereabouts took to social media in full force, expressing their well-wishes and support. One follower commented under Sheinelle’s last Instagram post from December 16, writing, “Where are you my dear? We’re missing you on the *Today* show.” Another fan expressed concern over potential contract issues, commenting, “If your disappearance is related to contract negotiations, I pray they don’t shortchange you like they did Tamron Hall!” This reference to the departure of former co-anchor Tamron Hall sparked a broader conversation about the treatment of African American women in media, with one viewer adding, “They will lose me and many others as viewers if you leave.”
Despite the speculation, Sheinelle’s fans have continued to express their support and love, hoping for her quick recovery and return to the show. “Your fans are missing you,” wrote one concerned viewer. “I hope all is well and we will see you next week back on *Today*. You are very loved by viewers.”
As Sheinelle focuses on her family’s health matters, her fans have shown unwavering loyalty, eagerly awaiting her return to the beloved morning show. In the meantime, the *Today* show family continues to send their well wishes, and viewers remain hopeful for Sheinelle’s comeback when she is ready.
Follow us to see more useful information, as well as to give us more motivation to update more useful information for you.