Jenna Bush Hager had a poorly timed sneeze during Tuesday’s (Nov. 26) Today broadcast just moments after she grilled Hoda Kotb about whether or not she’s a “germaphobe.”
The co-hosts were offering advice to a viewer during a special segment called “Social Dilemmas.” The viewer asked if they should ask a guest who was recently dealing with a stomach bug to not attend their holiday party, which left Kotb and Bush Hager surprisingly divided.
“Oof, we’re not germaphobes so this is a hard question for us because here’s the thing: If Megan is better, she’s probably no longer contagious,” Bush Hager replied. “Now I’m not a doctor, that’s why I said the word ‘probably.’ I don’t know.”
Kotb was a bit more on the fence about having the friend attend, which prompted Bush Hager to ask, “Are you a germaphobe? I didn’t think you were.”
“No, I’m actually not. I’m the opposite,” Kotb replied. “I’m like, go to school, go to work. Don’t worry. Did you wash your hands? You’re fine. I’m not so worried about that stuff.”
But when they moved on to the next viewer question during the segment, Bush Hager surprisingly sneezed on the air – prompting Kotb to walk straight off set.
“Bye!” Kotb exclaimed from side-stage as Bush Hager and the Today crew laughed.
When she joined Bush Hager back at the table, Kotb commented, “I’ve never seen you sneeze on TV in my life. In all of the years!” She then slid her mug of water to Bush Hager and said, “Here, you can have my water.”
“Uh-oh, do I have to stay home from your holiday party now?” Bush Hager joked.
The Today co-hosts aren’t always on the same page when their viewers write in for advice. They once bickered on the air over whether a viewer who wrote in should strike up a romance with their friend’s ex.
While Bush Hager urged the viewer to go for it, Kotb wasn’t exactly sold on the idea.
“You have one shot at this life. If that ex at the bar may be the love of your life, you’re going to create a lovely life together, you need to call your friend,” Bush Hager said.
“‘Love of your life’?” Kotb echoed. “That’s a leap.”
Today with Hoda & Jenna airs on weekdays at 10/9c on NBC.