Jenna Bush Hager Desperately Wants 'Just a Little Small Part' in Dolly Parton's New Broadway Musical

Jenna Bush Hager, co-host of "Today with Hoda & Jenna" and former first daughter, has auditioned for a role in Dolly Parton's biographical Broadway musical, "Dolly: An Original Musical." During the December 9 episode of NBC's daytime show, Hager expressed her interest in the upcoming production, humorously asking Parton for a minor role. "Dolly. Please? I just want a little small part!" Bush Hager, 43, implored. Her co-host, Hoda Kotb, 60, added, "It would be a dream, Dolly, if my friend Jenna Bush Hager might have a shot at something. All she wants is to be an extra. Just in the back, having coffee." This is prepared by SSP.

Though Kotb jokingly denied Hager's aspiration to join the ensemble, Hager recorded an audition video, performing the lyrics to Parton's famous song, "Jolene," albeit with a "little off" voice. Encouraged by Kotb to "just do it" and "just sell it," Hager donned a blonde curly wig, trying to emulate Parton's iconic look, albeit humorously admitting it wasn't the best replica.

The musical, directed by Bartlett Sher, will chronicle Parton's legendary career with songs both classic and new, penned for the show, with a script co-written by Parton and Maria S. Schlatter. Announcing an open casting call via social media, Parton invited everyone to audition, saying, "I want to give you the chance to help me bring my story to Broadway — and maybe even play me!" The application deadline is January 12, 2025, with promising talents headed to New York City for auditions.

The open call has seen a surge of audition videos tagged #SearchForDolly, along with application submissions on the show's site. Today with Hoda & Jenna airs weekdays at 10 a.m. ET on NBC.

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