Jenna Bush Hager, the former First Daughter, has opened up about her unique experiences growing up in the White House and the constant presence of the Secret Service. Now an adult, Hager is channelling these experiences into a new television project.
A Glimpse into “Protection”
During an appearance on The Kelly Clarkson Show alongside her Today co-host Sheinelle Jones, the 44-year-old revealed she’s developing a TV show titled “Protection.” This series, which may eventually air on NBC, is inspired by the protective units tasked with safeguarding presidential families, and in part, by Hager’s own interactions with the Secret Service during her father George W. Bush’s presidency (2001-2009).
“It’s based off of protective units, but some of my experience with Secret Service, who, now that I’m a full-grown adult, realise they sacrificed a lot to hang out with my family and me,” Hager explained. She views the show as a tribute to these dedicated individuals, describing it as “a mystery and it’s fun.”
Debunking Rumours: “I Never Hooked Up With Secret Service”
Kelly Clarkson, ever the curious interviewer, couldn’t resist a playful jab. When Hager alluded to the potential for dramatic plotlines, Clarkson quipped, “Missed opportunity!” to which Hager, with a laugh, replied, “I should’ve done it!” Clarkson, 43, acknowledged the unique perspective Hager possesses, noting, “That is kind of cool, not many people have that intel.” Hager expressed her enthusiasm for the project, suggesting it will be “really fun” and comparing its tone to a blend of Scandal and Six Feet Under.
A “Wild” Youth and Constant Surveillance
Hager hasn’t shied away from sharing anecdotes about her time under Secret Service protection on Today. She previously recounted how her youthful escapades were significantly curtailed by her ever-present escorts. “I couldn’t get away with much because I was followed by men with fanny packs that were concealing things,” she admitted.
During a past appearance on Today with her mother, former First Lady Laura Bush, 79, and her sister Barbara Pierce Bush, 44, Hager confessed that she and Barbara “were wild” growing up. Laura Bush playfully agreed, chiming in, “You were always wild.”
Dating Under Duress
The challenges of navigating teenage romance were amplified by the presence of security detail. Hager recently shared a memorable story about a third date with her now-husband, Henry Hager, 47.
“One time, Henry picked me up for a third date, and I had Secret Service men,” she recounted. The situation took a humorous turn when Henry’s car ran out of fuel.
The Bronco and the Breakdown
“He was out of gas…and he was driving up to a gas station in his old Bronco and was like, ‘Oh no, I’m out of gas.’ He’s like, ‘I think I can make it.’ He put it in neutral, and he was driving up, and then all of a sudden, it was like, [pow, pow]. And the Secret Service was right behind us,” Jenna recalled. Thankfully, no one was injured and no damage was sustained. “I didn’t hit them. I wasn’t driving,” she clarified, playfully blaming her spouse. “I mean, luckily, there was no damage done, but he was embarrassed.”
