Jenna Bush Hager Shares Why Her Husband Banned Daughter Mila from Appearing on ‘Today’
George W. Bush and Jenna Bush Hager. (Photo: Nathan Congleton/NBC/NBCU Photo Bank via Getty)
Jenna Bush Hager recently shared that her husband, Henry Hager, has imposed a “lifetime ban” on their daughter Mila from appearing on NBC’s Today show. The revelation came during an interview with E! News, where the 43-year-old Today co-host opened up about her family dynamics and Mila’s memorable moments on live television.
“They’re not jumping, but I may push them like I’ve done my whole life,” Bush Hager joked about involving her children in her work. “You know who really wants to do it? Mila Hager.”
The ban stems from an incident in January 2022 when Mila made a lively appearance on Today with Hoda & Jenna and shared some personal anecdotes about her mom. During the segment, Hoda Kotb asked Mila what she loved most about Jenna, to which Mila humorously responded by spilling a family secret.
“You know when I love her the most, Mila? When she’s laughing so hard she can’t catch her breath,” Kotb shared. Mila quipped, “Yeah, one time she was laughing in our living room, and she peed her pants! You changed your pajamas!”
Jenna, visibly embarrassed, replied, “Thank you, Mila. Thank you so much.”
Reflecting on the incident, Bush Hager explained that Mila’s candid remarks prompted her husband to declare a permanent ban on her reappearing on the show. “She said something very controversial,” Jenna said. “So, therefore, my husband gave her a lifetime ban. We’ll see if that’s lifted, maybe for a bring-your-kids-to-work day. But she hasn’t been always the most supportive, let’s just say that.”
While the ban might not be set in stone, it adds a playful layer to the family’s dynamic and highlights the hilarity of live TV moments. Mila’s bold personality and her knack for “truth bombs” have already made her a memorable guest on the show.
Whether Mila’s ban is ever lifted remains to be seen, but her candid remarks and ability to create viral moments suggest she might have a future in entertainment—if her dad allows it.
