Jenna Bush Hager’s Iconic Barbara Bush Halloween Costume & Her “Ganny’s” Hilarious Surprise Reaction
Jenna Bush Hager, co-host of Today with Hoda & Jenna, delighted fans when she paid tribute to her late grandmother, former First Lady Barbara Bush, with a spot-on Halloween costume in 2023. The heartwarming yet hilarious moment was made even better when Jenna revealed her “Ganny’s” initial reaction to the look years prior.
Jenna’s Nod to Barbara Bush: A Touching Tribute
Jenna has always been open about her close bond with her grandmother, affectionately calling her “Ganny.” Barbara Bush, known for her signature pearls, white hair, and sharp wit, was a beloved public figure, making Jenna’s costume instantly recognizable.
For Halloween, Jenna donned a teased white wig, round glasses, a blue suit, and Barbara’s iconic triple-strand pearl necklace. She even perfected Barbara’s posture and expressions, leaving fans in awe of the resemblance.
Ganny’s Original Reaction: “You’re Wearing What?”
During a segment on the Today show, Jenna shared that she had first worn the costume years earlier—and Barbara Bush’s reaction was priceless.
“I dressed up as her once, and she was like, ‘You’re wearing what?’” Jenna recalled, laughing. “She was so horrified, but then she laughed. That was Ganny—she could be stern but always had a great sense of humor.”
This behind-the-scenes anecdote added a personal touch to the viral moment, showcasing the Bush family’s playful dynamic.
Fan Reactions & Social Media Buzz
Jenna’s costume quickly spread across social media, with fans praising both the accuracy and the sentimental value.
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Twitter/X User @BushFamilyFan: “Jenna nailed it! Barbara Bush would’ve loved this (after pretending to be mad, of course).”
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Instagram Comment: “The pearls, the hair, the glasses—PERFECTION. Love this tribute!”
Even fellow Today hosts couldn’t resist joining in. Hoda Kotb joked, “I think Barbara Bush is haunting us now—and I’m here for it!”
Watch the Moment:
For those who missed the segment, you can catch Jenna’s Halloween reveal on the Today Show’s official YouTube channel: Jenna Bush Hager as Barbara Bush
Why This Costume Resonated
Barbara Bush passed away in 2018, but her legacy endures. Jenna’s costume wasn’t just funny—it was a heartfelt nod to a woman who shaped her life. In her memoir, Everything Beautiful in Its Time, Jenna wrote about how Barbara’s wisdom and humor influenced her.
“Ganny taught me that laughter is the best response to almost everything,” Jenna shared. “Even when she was giving you ‘The Look,’ you knew there was love behind it.”
A Family Tradition of Humor & Love
The Bushes are known for their playful family moments. Former President George W. Bush once joked at a White House Correspondents’ Dinner, “I inherited my father’s eyes and my mother’s mouth—and I’ve been in trouble ever since.”
Jenna’s Halloween tribute fits right into this tradition—honoring Barbara Bush’s memory while keeping her spirit alive through laughter.
Final Thoughts
Jenna Bush Hager’s Barbara Bush Halloween costume was more than just a clever disguise—it was a celebration of family, legacy, and the kind of humor that binds generations together. And knowing Barbara Bush’s original reaction makes the story even sweeter.
Would Ganny have approved? Probably—after a mock scolding and a warm laugh.
