Sheinelle Jones Breaks Silence: The Heartbreaking Truth Behind Her ‘Today’ Show Absence

Sheinelle Jones, beloved co-host of NBC’s Today show, has been noticeably absent from the morning program since December 2024. Initially, she attributed her leave to a “family health matter,” leaving fans and colleagues alike in suspense. However, on May 23, 2025, the truth emerged: Jones’ husband, Uche Ojeh, passed away at the age of 45 after a courageous battle with glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer.

Today Show's Sheinelle Jones Mourns Husband Uche Ojeh After Battle with Brain Cancer - Urban ...

In a heartfelt message shared on Instagram, Jones expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming support she received during this challenging time. “Thank you, for all of your love and support,” she wrote, accompanied by a video clip from the Today show where her co-anchors announced her husband’s passing.

The Hidden Struggle

Jones and Ojeh, who met at Northwestern University and married in 2007, have three children: Kayin, 15, and 12-year-old twins Clara and Uche. Throughout Ojeh’s illness, the family chose to keep the diagnosis private, focusing on cherishing their time together. Jones’ decision to remain silent was driven by a desire to protect her children from the harsh realities of their father’s condition. In her own words, she “didn’t want [her] kids to know the truth.”

A Community in Mourning

The Today show family has rallied around Jones during this difficult period. Co-hosts Savannah Guthrie, Craig Melvin, Al Roker, and others have publicly expressed their condolences and support. Guthrie described Ojeh as “an incredible person” and emphasized the collective grief felt by the team.

Dylan Dreyer, another co-anchor, shared that the team checks in with Jones regularly, stating, “We chat with her often. A week doesn’t go by where we’re not checking in, seeing how she’s doing.”

Today Show Hosts Honor Sheinelle Jones' Late Husband Uche Ojeh | Us Weekly

As Jones navigates this profound loss, she has expressed her intention to return to the Today show when the time is right. Her absence has been a poignant reminder of the importance of family and the strength required to face personal tragedies in the public eye.

Fans and colleagues continue to send their love and support, hoping for Jones’ healing and eventual return to the morning program that has been a staple in many households.