AceShowbiz - Jenna Bush Hager is navigating mixed emotions about Hoda Kotb's upcoming departure from the "Today" show, playfully using Gayle King as a comedic foil. During the December 3 episode of "Today with Hoda & Jenna", Bush Hager admitted to dealing with her frustration by teasing Kotb about King, who hosts "CBS Mornings".

Bush Hager jokingly referred to King as her "bestie" and suggested she could fill Kotb's seat. Kotb responded with mock outrage, but Bush Hager continued her playful ribbing, saying, "Gayle King loves Shaboozey."

However, Kotb called out Bush Hager's tactics, saying, "She's shading me. She brings up Gayle King 10 times during our show."

Bush Hager admitted her actions were a way to cope with Kotb's impending departure. "Today, that's the anger I have," she told guest Mikey Day. "I have abandonment issues with her leaving."

Kotb, who announced her departure in September, will leave the show on January 10, 2025. "Today with Hoda & Jenna" will be renamed 'Today with Jenna & Friends' with Bush Hager hosting alongside rotating guest co-hosts until a permanent replacement is found.

Bush Hager's comments come after Hoda Kotb appeared upset on the December 6 episode of "Today with Hoda & Jenna" when Bush Hager suggested that King could replace her. Kotb responded by saying, "My seat isn't even cold yet!"

Despite the playful jabs, Kotb praised King, saying, "I love Gayle. She just..." Bush Hager interrupted, saying, "There's a seat open and I know you have a job at 60 Minutes and such, but Gayle and Jenna... it has a beautiful ring!"

Kotb's departure will mark a significant change for the "Today" show. Craig Melvin will replace her alongside Savannah Guthrie come January 13, 2025.