Kathie Lee Gifford gave 'Today' replacement Jenna Bush Hager this special gift

Erin Jensen
Updated

Kathie Lee Gifford had something special for Jenna Bush Hager, her successor for the fourth hour of "Today," rebranded as "Today with Hoda & Jenna."

Bush Hager shared with Entertainment Tonight that her predecessor gave her a bracelet. The outlet reports Hoda Kotb's new partner intended to share Gifford's gesture on air.

"She left me a bracelet that said, ‘Your joy is non-negotiable,’ ” Bush Hager said. “I can't believe I (forgot)! What is wrong with me?”

Gifford previously shared with USA TODAY the bit of advice she gave the new host, which was more of an affirmation.

"One day I just said, 'Jenna, I know you haven’t asked me for any advice, but I just want to tell you one thing: You got this job because you earned it,' " she recalled. " 'You showed up here every day an authentically beautiful human being. Everyone fell in love with you, and then you did the work.' "

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Bush Hager's first day Monday kicked off with excitement and a few tears.

She got a special message from her dad, former President George W. Bush, who recorded a video telling her "how much I love you and how proud I am of you. I know you'll do a fabulous job."

Bush Hager's mother and mother-in-law also wished her well via video. And the host was moved to tears.

"Is this what's gonna happen?" she asked. "I'm just gonna cry all the time?"

"That was so sweet," she added, wiping tears from her eyes.

Bush Hager's husband, Henry Hager, and their two kids – Margaret, aka "Mila," 5, and Poppy, 3 – also popped up for an on-air surprise.

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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Kathie Lee Gifford gave 'Today' replacement Jenna Bush Hager this special gift