Sheinelle Jones has finally addressed her absence from “Today,” nearly a month after she disappeared from television screens without any explanation.
Jones has been absent from the program since Dec. 18, even missing out on Hoda Kotb’s star-studded farewell show. A typical fixture across the “Today” show’s programming — she serves as co-host on the 3rd hour alongside Al Roker, Craig Melvin and Dylan Dreyer, often fills in as co-anchor for “Today,” and guest co-hosts “Today with Hoda & Jenna” — fans were quick to express their concern for Jones as speculation regarding her whereabouts swirled online.
“Hi everybody … I sincerely appreciate all of you who have reached out while I’ve been absent from the show,” Jones wrote in an Instagram post shared Wednesday. “I want to share with you that I’m taking time to deal with a family health matter.”
The TV personality did not provide specific details, but she did go on to further express her gratitude to those who have checked in on her in recent weeks.
“It’s not lost on me how lucky I am to have not only the support of my ‘Today’ show family, but to also have all of you,” she concluded. “Your kindness means so much to me. I’ll see you soon.”
Jones, who joined NBC in 2014, is married to Uche Ojeh. Together they share three children: 15-year-old Kayin and 12-year-old twins, Clara and Uche.
A source told People the “family health matter” does not concern Jones herself nor the three children she shares with her husband.
Her statement was also read aloud on air by Savannah Guthrie on Wednesday.
“We know so many of you have been asking about Sheinelle, and missing her, and we miss her, too,” she said.
Melvin added: “Sheinelle, we all love you, and we are so looking forward to having you back.”
