Sheinelle Jones Breaks Silence on Absence from Today Show Following Viewer Concern

Sheinelle Jones, a beloved anchor on Today’s 3rd Hour, has finally spoken out regarding her extended absence from the NBC morning show. 

After weeks of speculation and growing concern from viewers, the 46-year-old journalist took to Instagram to share a heartfelt message, 

revealing that she has been away to handle a personal family health matter.

Fans of Today had noticed her prolonged disappearance from the program, especially since she has been a regular presence on the show for six years. 

Their concern only deepened when she was noticeably missing from Hoda Kotb’s farewell episode on January 10, 

with no recorded message like those from her co-hosts Savannah Guthrie, Craig Melvin, and Al Roker.

Now, Sheinelle is reassuring her supporters that she appreciates their kindness and will return soon.

Sheinelle Addresses Her Absence on Instagram

On Wednesday morning, Sheinelle posted a personal message on Instagram, breaking her silence on why she has been away from Today.

“Hi everybody… I sincerely appreciate all of you who have reached out while I’ve been absent from the show,” she began. “I want to share with you that I’m taking time to deal with a family health matter.”

She continued by expressing her gratitude to her colleagues and audience: “It’s not lost on me how lucky I am to have not only the support of my Today Show family but also all of you. Your kindness means so much to me. I’ll see you soon.”

Her message was met with an outpouring of love from fans and fellow journalists, many of whom left supportive comments, expressing their understanding and well wishes.

Savannah Guthrie and Craig Melvin Acknowledge Sheinelle’s Absence

Shortly after Sheinelle’s Instagram update, her colleagues on Today addressed her absence on-air. Savannah Guthrie, 53, took a moment to share the news with viewers, acknowledging that many had been asking about Sheinelle’s whereabouts.

“We want to share some news about our friend Sheinelle,” Savannah said. “She posted to Instagram this morning, letting everyone know she has been taking time off to deal with a personal family health matter.”

She continued, “She thanked everyone for their kindness and concern. So many of you have been asking about Sheinelle and missing her, and we miss her, too.”

Craig Melvin, 45, also chimed in with a heartfelt message: “Sheinelle, we all love you, and we are so looking forward to having you back.”

Their statements served as further confirmation that Sheinelle’s absence was due to personal reasons and not related to work or contract issues, as some fans had speculated.

Concerned Viewers Flood Social Media with Questions

In the weeks leading up to Sheinelle’s statement, Today fans had been growing increasingly worried about her continued absence. Many took to social media to voice their concerns and seek answers.

One Instagram user commented on her last post from December 16, writing: “Where are you, my dear? We’re missing you on the Today show.”

Another fan speculated about the nature of her absence, saying, “If your disappearance is related to contract negotiations, I pray they don’t shortchange you like they did Tamron Hall! They will lose me and many others as viewers if you leave.”

Others simply expressed their hopes that everything was okay: “Your fans are missing you. I hope all is well and we will see you next week back on Today. You are very loved by viewers.”

Some also pointed out her absence from Hoda Kotb’s farewell episode, with one viewer writing: “She wasn’t there for Hoda’s last day either. I hate that. I love Sheinelle.” Another added, “I thought the same thing! Not even a pre-recorded message to Hoda. I noticed she hasn’t posted anything on here in almost a month as well.”

A Much-Anticipated Return to Today

Sheinelle’s update has reassured viewers that she will be back on Today, though she did not specify an exact return date. Fans are eager for her to rejoin the morning lineup, where her warm presence and engaging storytelling have made her a favorite among audiences.

For now, her colleagues and viewers continue to send her their best wishes as she focuses on her family. The Today show remains supportive of her need to step away during this time, and fans can look forward to welcoming her back when she’s ready.

As Sheinelle herself said, “I’ll see you soon”—a promise that her audience is holding onto as they await her return.

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