Jenna Bush Hager rings in tonight with Hoda Kotb on NBC and what happens at 10:30 PM will shock TODAY fans

Jenna Bush Hager is reuniting with Hoda Kotb tonight on NBC for a star-studded celebration of 2025. The two-hour special “A Toast to 2025!” promises to deliver unforgettable moments from the past year. An impressive lineup of entertainment industry icons will join the former TODAY co-hosts for this primetime event.

A Reunion for the Ages Tonight on NBC

Fans have been waiting for this moment all year. Jenna Bush Hager and Hoda Kotb built an incredible chemistry during their seasons together on the TODAY show’s fourth hour. While Kotb retired in January 2025, her return for this special-occasion event shows the enduring bond between the two hosts. The one-night-only reunion will bring back all the warmth and humor audiences loved.

This special will showcase both hosts’ best moments from their time together on morning television. They’ll also look back at the most significant moments that defined 2025. The fact that NBC chose this dynamic duo to ring in the New Year speaks volumes about their lasting appeal and connection with viewers across the country.

Star-Studded Celebrity Guest List Tonight

NBC has assembled an impressive roster of entertainment talent for tonight’s broadcast. Broadway sensation Kristin Chenoweth and Ethan Slater represent the theater world alongside fellow performers. Comedian Jim Gaffigan and actor Brian Baumgartner (known for his role on “The Office”) round out the creative talent. Lil Rel Howery brings comedy experience to the lineup as well.

The special also features appearances from various TODAY show personalities and NBC News correspondents who have become familiar faces to millions of viewers. These recognizable personalities will share behind-the-scenes stories and reflections on significant events from throughout 2025. The combination of entertainment celebrities and news professionals creates a unique celebration experience.

What to Expect During the Two-Hour Special

Aspect	Details
Show Title	“A Toast to 2025!”
Duration	2 hours (10:30 PM – 12:30 AM ET)
Network	NBC (also streaming on Peacock)
Hosts	Jenna Bush Hager and Hoda Kotb
Senior Producer	Liz Cole

The special will look back at the most unforgettable, buzziest, and inspiring moments from 2025 according to NBC representatives. Viewers can expect a perfect blend of entertainment, nostalgia, and celebration as the year comes to an end. The format allows for extended conversations with celebrity guests and reflections on the year that was.

The production quality of this special reflects NBC’s commitment to making New Year’s Eve accessible to viewers nationwide. By pairing entertainment celebrities with news figures, the network ensures there’s something for everyone watching tonight. The relaxed, conversation-focused format lets guests share genuine reactions rather than quick soundbites.

How to Watch Tonight’s NBC Celebration

Viewers have multiple ways to tune into tonight’s special. The broadcast airs live on NBC starting at 10:30 PM ET through 12:30 AM ET. Those without cable access can stream the special on Peacock, NBC’s streaming service, making it convenient for cord-cutters. The wide availability ensures that fans of Jenna Bush Hager and Hoda Kotb won’t miss this rare reunion.

Set reminders on your devices now because showtime arrives at 10:30 PM ET tonight. Whether watching live or planning to stream tomorrow, audiences have flexibility in how they experience the celebration. The two-hour time slot means viewers can watch the countdown and all the celebrity moments without interruption, creating the perfect New Year’s Eve viewing experience.

Will This Be the First Time Hoda Kotb Returns to Television Since Retirement?

This marks Hoda Kotb‘s significant return to primetime television since stepping away from her full-time role on the TODAY show. Her departure left a void in morning television that the network has been filling with rotating guest hosts and eventually Sheinelle Jones as the permanent co-host to Jenna Bush Hager. Many fans have wondered when they’d see Kotb again, making tonight’s reunion particularly meaningful.

The decision to bring back Kotb specifically with Bush Hager demonstrates the value NBC places on their partnership. This one-night-only event celebrates their chemistry while giving viewers a chance to see both hosts doing what they do best. For loyal fans of their morning show work together, tonight represents a special treat that may not happen again soon.

“Look back at the most unforgettable, buzziest and inspiring moments of 2025.”

— NBC Official Description, A Toast to 2025! Special

Sources

• NBC News – Official special announcement and guest lineup details
• Dateline NBC – Production information for the 11th annual New Year’s Eve special
• Parade Magazine – Celebrity guest confirmations and air time details