A Heartbreaking Loss for the Today Show Family
The Today show team is mourning an unimaginable loss. Uche Ojeh, husband of longtime co-host Sheinelle Jones, passed away at 45. He had been battling glioblastoma, a fast-moving and aggressive brain cancer.
The Announcement
The devastating news broke live during the Friday, May 23 broadcast. Sheinelle’s co-hosts—Savannah Guthrie, Craig Melvin, Al Roker, Carson Daly, Dylan Dreyer, and Jenna Bush Hager—delivered the update with what they called “profound sadness.”
“There are no words for the pain we feel for Sheinelle and their three young children,” said Guthrie. “Uche was an incredible person. We all loved him.”
She added, “To Sheinelle, Kayin, Uche, Clara, and the Ojeh family—we are with you. You are our family. We’re sending you all our love.”
A Father First
Craig Melvin, close friend of Ojeh, spoke through tears. “He loved those kids more than anything. He was that dad on the sidelines at every soccer game. He never missed a recital. He was always there.”
A Life Built on Love
Uchechukwuka Adenola Ojeh wasn’t just known by name. He was a loving husband, devoted father, and cherished partner in Sheinelle’s life for nearly two decades. Married for 18 years, the couple raised three children: 15-year-old Kayin and 12-year-old twins Clara and Uche.
They met when Sheinelle was a freshman at Northwestern University. Uche, then a high school senior, was visiting campus. Years later, they got engaged on that same campus and married in Sheinelle’s hometown of Philadelphia on September 2, 2007.
His Legacy
Friends remember Ojeh for his warmth, quiet strength, and deep faith. A loving dad, he attended every concert, game, and family milestone. He sang in the church choir, stayed connected to his Nigerian roots, and passed that cultural pride to his children.
“He was her perfect match,” Guthrie said during a tribute. “His joyful spirit and calm strength brought warmth and life to every room.”
Sheinelle’s First Words
Sheinelle had been absent from the show since December, caring for her husband. In January, she described the situation as a “family health matter.” On Friday, she broke her silence. She shared a video of the tribute with a simple caption:
“Thank you, for all of your love and support. ❤️”
The Community Rallies
The loss has shaken both Today staff and viewers. But the outpouring of love and support continues.
One viewer summed it up: “Sheinelle gave us joy every morning. Now it’s our turn to lift her up.”
Rest in peace, Uche Ojeh.
