The Today Show Family Mourns an Unthinkable Loss
The Today Show family is heartbroken after losing one of their own. Uche Ojeh, the cherished husband of longtime Today co-host Sheinelle Jones, has tragically passed away at just 45 years old following a courageous battle with glioblastoma — a relentless and aggressive form of brain cancer.
“There are no words…”
The heartbreaking announcement came during the May 23 broadcast of Today, where Sheinelle’s co-hosts—Savannah Guthrie, Craig Melvin, Al Roker, Carson Daly, Dylan Dreyer, and Jenna Bush Hager—shared the devastating news with heavy hearts and profound sadness, as reported by People.
Savannah Guthrie captured the overwhelming grief felt by everyone, saying, “There are no words for the pain we feel for Sheinelle and their three young children.”
Craig Melvin, who was especially close to Uche, spoke through tears: “He loved those kids more than anything. He was the dad cheering on every soccer game, attending every recital and concert. He was that guy—the proud, devoted father.”
A devoted husband, a loving father, a remarkable man
Uchechukwuka Adenola Ojeh—known simply as Uche to those who loved him—was more than just a familiar name to viewers. He was Sheinelle’s steadfast partner and their children’s unwavering pillar of strength for nearly two decades.
Together for 18 years, Uche and Sheinelle built a beautiful life centered on their three children: 15-year-old son Kayin, and 12-year-old twins Clara and Uche.
Their love story began in college—Uche first met Sheinelle when she was a freshman at Northwestern University and he was visiting the campus as a high school senior. That very campus later became the magical backdrop for their engagement. After years of nurturing their love across long distances, they finally said “I do” in Philadelphia on September 2, 2007.
The Today family and millions of viewers are sending their deepest love and support to Sheinelle, her children, and the entire Ojeh family during this unimaginably difficult time.
Sheinelle Jones and Uche Ojeh were a stunning presence together, captured here at the NAACP LDF 33rd National Equal Justice Awards Dinner held at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City on November 7, 2019. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for NAACP LDF)
Those closest to Uche remember him for his warmth, quiet strength, and unwavering devotion to family and faith. As a dedicated father, he never missed a single soccer game, music recital, or precious family moment. He sang with passion in his church choir, proudly honored his Nigerian heritage, and passed that deep cultural pride onto his children.
Savannah Guthrie’s touching tribute on Friday’s broadcast perfectly captured Uche’s spirit:
“He was her perfect match; a man whose joyful spirit and quiet strength complemented Sheinelle in every way. Uche was the kind of person who brought life, warmth, and joy to every room he entered.”
Sheinelle’s First Public Words
Since Uche’s passing, Sheinelle had chosen to stay private, stepping away from the Today show in December to care for her husband, referring to the ordeal as a “family health matter” in a heartfelt Instagram post back in January. But on Friday, she quietly broke her silence — sharing a video tribute from the show honoring Uche, accompanied by a simple yet powerful message:
“Thank you, for all of your love and support. ❤️”
The tragic loss has deeply shaken viewers and the entire Today family alike. Now, they are rallying around Sheinelle, honoring Uche’s memory and standing steadfast in support of her and their children during this profoundly difficult time.
As one viewer poignantly shared online, “Sheinelle gave us joy every morning. Now it’s our turn to lift her up.” RIP Ojeh!
