Jenna Bush Hager Emotionally Recalls How Salma Hayek Treated Her During Her First-Ever Today Interview
On May 13, 2025, Jenna Bush Hager took a moment on the *Today* show to reflect on the kindness and support she received from actress Salma Hayek during her very first interview with the morning program. This poignant recollection took place in a segment featuring Hayek, who is currently gracing the cover of *Sports Illustrated Swimsuit*. Jenna expressed her heartfelt gratitude for the nurturing environment that Hayek created, which greatly alleviated her nerves during a significant milestone in her television career.
A Memorable First Interview
As Jenna shared her story, she fondly recalled, “I interviewed you for the very first interview when I got this job,” to which Salma responded with humor, joking about her own feelings of nostalgia, as she had not fully realized the gravity of that moment for Jenna at the time. The conversation took an emotional turn as Jenna expressed, “You made me feel so good in a time when I was nervous about starting something new.” This heartfelt acknowledgment underscored the lasting influence of Hayek’s encouraging demeanor in a moment of vulnerability.
The Impact of Kindness in Television
The dialogue between the two women highlighted the importance of kindness and support within the television industry, especially during pivotal career transitions. Jenna and Salma reminisced about that special moment, with Hayek affirming how impressive and poised Jenna was during her inaugural interview—further emphasizing the power of encouragement in a competitive environment. Their exchange not only showcased Jenna’s gratitude but also illustrated how mentorship can significantly impact careers in broadcasting.
Jenna’s Career Evolution
Over the years, Jenna Bush Hager has shown remarkable growth in her career, which has been marked by a series of accomplishments. She has transitioned from her initial role into co-hosting the fourth hour of *Today* alongside Hoda Kotb. With Hoda’s departure, Jenna has also launched *Today with Jenna & Friends*, a refreshing new show aimed at offering an inclusive space for diverse celebrity guest co-hosts. This initiative reflects her commitment to fostering a welcoming and supportive atmosphere for viewers and guests alike.
The heartfelt exchange on the *Today* show serves as a poignant reminder of the emotional connections that can form even in the intensely competitive realm of television. It underscores how important mutual support is, especially for those who are just starting their journeys, and illustrates how acts of kindness can profoundly shape lives and careers. You can catch *Today with Jenna & Friends* weekdays at 10 a.m. ET on NBC.
