Banfield to Lead NewsNation‘s True Crime Expansion, Today Show Announces New Co-Host
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NewsNation’s flagship 10 p.m. ET weeknight show, Banfield, will see a changing of the guard in January 2026 as Ashleigh Banfield transitions to spearhead the network’s ambitious new true crime digital vertical. Simultaneously, NBC news’ Today show has named Shenielle Jones as the permanent co-host of its fourth hour, filling the seat vacated by Hoda Kotb earlier in the year.
Banfield’s New Role at NewsNation
Banfield, known for her in-depth legal analysis and compelling storytelling, will oversee the development of NewsNation’s foray into the rapidly growing true crime genre. Her long-running podcast, Drop dead Serious with Ashleigh Banfield, will also become available on the NewsNation platform. According to a statement from Michael Corn, president of programming and specials, Banfield’s “storytelling and credibility make her the perfect partner as we build a digital destination for true crime fans while keeping her voice central to our on-air coverage.”
Banfield will anchor her final show in January 2026, but will remain a visible presence on NewsNation, continuing to provide expert legal analysis. She expressed enthusiasm for the new venture, stating, “The success of true crime reporting on streaming media platforms has been transformative, and I’m looking forward to helping shape and enhance NewsNation’s multi-platform strategy in this genre.” A replacement for Banfield’s nightly show has not yet been announced.
Today Show Welcomes Shenielle Jones
Shenielle Jones, previously a national correspondent for NBC News, will officially join the Today show’s fourth hour on January 1, 2026. Jones has been a frequent guest co-host since Kotb’s departure and impressed viewers and producers alike with her insightful interviews and engaging personality. Today show executive producer Libby Leist praised Jones, stating, “Shenielle brings a unique outlook and a genuine warmth to the show that resonates with our audience.”
MS NOW adds ABC News Talent
MS NOW is bolstering its on-air reporting team with several new additions from ABC News. Ines de La Cuetara joins as a London-based international reporter,while Will McDuffie will report from New York. Josh Einiger, formerly with ABC News’ New york affiliate WABT-TV, will serve as a senior transportation and aviation reporter, also based in New York. Additionally, Nick McCool and Britt Miller, previously with NBC News and NBC 4 New York respectively, have been named overnight anchors and reporters.
CNN Honors Quilen Blackwell as 2025 Hero of the year
In a heartwarming recognition of community impact, Quilen Blackwell was named CNN’s 2025 Hero of the Year. Blackwell received $100,000 for his work with Southside Blooms, an institution that transforms vacant lots on Chicago’s South Side into thriving, eco-friendly flower farms. The initiative provides employment opportunities for local young people, who are involved in every stage of the process, from growing and harvesting to arranging and selling the flowers at the group’s nonprofit flower shop. You can learn more about Blackwell’s work here: https://t.co/kRQ4tF90RI.
These developments signal a dynamic period of change and growth across several major news networks, reflecting the evolving demands of the media landscape and a continued commitment to impactful storytelling.
