In September 2025, Sheinelle Jones returned to the “Today” show after a heartbreaking loss. Her husband, Uche Ojeh, had died from brain cancer just four months earlier. Now, she is starting a new chapter. On a December 2025 episode, Jenna Bush Hager surprised Jones with big news. Starting January 12, 2026, Jones will be the permanent co-host of the show’s fourth hour.
This promotion is a major milestone. It comes after a very difficult year for Jones and her three children. She believes her late husband is guiding her and celebrating with her from above.
A Year of Heartbreak and Healing
Jones stepped away from “Today” in late 2024. She wanted to care for her husband during his final fight with cancer. Uche Ojeh did not want her to stop her life for him. They even argued about it. But Jones knew she needed to be with him.
After his passing in May 2025, Jones focused on her family. She has spoken openly about her grief. She describes life now as a “beautiful nightmare.” Every day is a balance between sadness and choosing to find happiness.
A Joyful Celebration with Her Kids
Jones shared the happy news of her new job with her children first. Their reactions filled their home with joy. Her son, Kayin, sent a proud selfie from his school library. Her twin daughters celebrated with her at home with a special toast.
“There was so much joy in our house, and we needed that joy,” Jones said. This moment felt like a sign of healing for their family.
How Uche Ojeh Inspired Her Path
Jones feels a deep connection to her late husband. She believes he helped make this new opportunity happen. On the morning of the announcement, she put on one of his shirts and said a prayer. She described the moment as “divine.”
“When I came back from leave, I talked about fighting for my joy. This is what it looks like,” Jones explained. She imagines Uche, who was very competitive, cheering her on from heaven.
Who Was Uche Ojeh?
Uche Ojeh was Jones’s college sweetheart and husband of 18 years. He was not a public figure, but he was the center of her world. He was a dedicated father and a successful tech consultant. He was born in Nigeria and was very proud of his heritage.
Their love story began in the 1990s. Jones was a college freshman when she met Ojeh, a visiting high school senior. She cleverly introduced herself by pretending to be a campus tour guide. A year later, he enrolled at the same university. They dated for eight years before he proposed at the very spot they first met.
They married in 2007 and built a beautiful family with three children. Ojeh was known for his positive spirit and ambition. In 2023, he achieved a personal goal by completing a triathlon. His family, whom he called “The Uche’s,” celebrated this victory with him.
A Private Battle with Cancer
In late 2023, Uche was diagnosed with glioblastoma. This is a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer. Jones protected his privacy during his treatment. She often went to his chemotherapy sessions right after finishing her morning show.
As his health declined, Jones took a full leave from work in December 2024. She wanted to be fully present for him and their children. Uche Ojeh passed away in May 2025. He was 45 years old.
A Message of Hope for Others
Jones returned to “Today” in September 2025 with a powerful message. She wants to show others that it is possible to move forward with grief. “If you see me here, that means you can do it too,” she told the audience. “We’re all gonna fight for our joy.”
Now, as she prepares to co-host “Today with Jenna & Sheinelle,” she carries that message forward. She moves ahead with the love and strength her husband gave her, honoring his memory every day.
