Q100’s Jenn Hobby co-hosting ‘Live With Regis & Kelly’ today
Q100’s Jenn Hobby subbed out for Kelly Ripa this morning on “Live with Regis & Kelly,” one of four radio hosts who won a national contest to be on national TV.
She made no notable snafus and didn’t seem nervous. As a guest host, she wisely let Regis Philbin take the lead, especially during the celebrity interview segments.
Wearing a modest dark blue dress with a black belt, Hobby gave her radio family major props by name. They even aired the moment last week when she found out she made it on Regis.
“We talk about our personal lives,” she said. “We are invested in each other.”
She said she first met Bert Weiss back in 2002, a year before he hired her to replace Lindsay Brien. (She didn’t say it, but she started her radio career at the now-defunct 95.5/The Beat.)
She also told Regis how she met her fiance Grant Rivera, a principal, who was in the audience. Regis asked Grant about how American students are lagging behind others. Grant joked how his students are smarter than he is, adding, “We have to help them stay focused learning that there’s life after high school. It’s a great school.” This seemed like a rather odd place to delve into America’s education system so Regis moved on.
Jenn said she first met Grant when his school’s band came into the studio after getting invited to be part of Pres. Obama’s inauguration. “Their little geeky band members came in, and then their geeky band director came in, and then the gorgeous principal,” she said. “Well, hello! How are you? Nice to meet you!” [UPDATE: Some folks below in the comment section were offended by her use of "geeky." We'll see what she has to say Monday on the Bert Show. I'll update this then.]
She said it was a year before they had their first date.
After promos and ads, it was time for the celebrity segments.
Hayden Christensen was notably forgettable promoting a movie. She kissed his cheek when he entered so Regis later joked, “The principal didn’t like it. You might have to spend some extra time in school!”
Melissa Joan Hart, an actress promoting her ABC Family show, was livelier. She married a musician. (Jenn once married a musician, too, but that ended in divorce. She artfully chose not to mention that.) She did reference an Atlanta connection: she ran into Joey Lawrence shooting a film called “My Fake Fiance” here two years ago and that led to the sitcom they’re doing now called, of course, “Melissa & Joey.”
Hobby, a self-described foodie, wanted to do a cooking segment. She ended up hosting a “Firehouse Cook-Off” but didn’t actually get to do any cooking.
Q100’s Bert Show aired pretty much the entire hour with the show members inserting their comments. “She is really a natural,” a caller said. The audio will be up on the Bert Show website.
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131 comments Add your comment
mr hankey
August 20th, 2010
3:36 pm
Dont know what the big deal is about her not going #2 in front of Grant….everyone knows her poo dont stink so whats the big deal?
Atlanta Guy
August 20th, 2010
3:38 pm
It was really disappointing to hear her call not the only the band director “Geeky” but the students as well. Such poor taste that clearly shows how she feels about those people. Within the first five minutes of what should have been an incredible experience, she blew it all away. And at that point, I turned the station. There will no doubt be a lot of PR-spin put to this on Monday’s radio show that she is a part of. But the damage, unfortunately, was done by 9:05 this morning. And on top of it all, she hideously embarrassed her future second husband. People from the South are supposed to have much better manners and taste.
Spork Lover
August 20th, 2010
3:38 pm
Rotney,
Why you wear dat dum looking hat?
Matt Chernoff
August 20th, 2010
3:44 pm
I thought she was pathetic!
Chuck Oliver
August 20th, 2010
3:45 pm
Em, me too!
the geeky band director
August 20th, 2010
3:46 pm
Thanks for dissing my appearance on national television. Very classy, Jenn.
Ashley
August 20th, 2010
4:17 pm
@The Squirt Show ” Would everyone who thinks it wasn’t a big deal also not have a problem if she referred to the Bert’s Big Adventure kids as a bunch of retards?”
That is so NOT the same thing.
freeks and geeks
August 20th, 2010
4:19 pm
it’s ok to call her a dumb blonde and airhead, but she calls the band director (not the entire band) a geek and panties get ruffled.
get over it.
Jen blows
August 20th, 2010
4:19 pm
Hobby blows, as does that horrid morning show that she’s on. They should go the way of 95.5 and just disappear.
As for her sub on Regis — awful!
What?
August 20th, 2010
4:25 pm
C’mon people, she didn’t mean it literally, she was telling a story of how she first laid eyes on her fiance. I am pretty critical, but even I didn’t see the harm in her story, it was cute and people need comprehension skills, because it was all in context and not meant to hurt.
As far as how long she has known her fi, who cares? Good for her! She found love again and wants to get married, big deal! If she were in her 20’s I would raise a brow, but she has been there, done that and won’t make the same mistakes again.
You people are harsh, and leave Wendy alone, what does she have to do with this?
Really?
August 20th, 2010
4:54 pm
I thought she got some help from Barneys Co-Op on her wardrobe. But that blue dress looked like something from the sale rack at a Charlotte Russe or Dillard’s. Jenn, please make a run through Bergdorf Goodman while you’re in NYC and get some real wardrobe pieces. Even that Jessica Dauler would know better…and I’ve seen what she’ll put on.
Bando
August 20th, 2010
5:10 pm
Regardless of whether or not it is appropriate to call kids in band geeks, the fact that she would make that kind of reference about educators and students when she is marrying an educator should scare the heck out of her fiancé. She is classless and has proven to America that she has no grace under pressure. Hopefully this will end any TV career and with a little luck we won’t have to listen to her endless droning on the radio. Good-bye Jenn.
Highlander
August 20th, 2010
5:11 pm
On another note. with Larry King retiring, does that leave Regis as the oldest living fossil on TV?
Really?
August 20th, 2010
5:13 pm
Bando, I second your comment. The poor choice in blue dress was just the finishing touch on a terrible representation of herself, that radio show and our city.
Big D
August 20th, 2010
5:16 pm
Wendy may be the dumbest human being on earth.
alissa
August 20th, 2010
5:19 pm
Verbatim: “Their little geeky band members came in, and then their geeky band director came in, and then … ” Funny: her elbows don’t leave that black belt! Anyway, I’m sure she was a very popular cheerleader in high school and she just can’t relate to the kids in the band. “Geeky” does not have a positive connotation, no matter how you spin it! Otherwise, hope she had fun.
Disappointed
August 20th, 2010
5:29 pm
Calling children geeky can be hurtful, especially if they look-up to you. As an adult and a public figure, I highly recommend taking a few moments to think before you speak, especially in a public forum. I believe an apology is in order.
Shut your pie hole
August 20th, 2010
5:45 pm
For everyone who is crying a river over the geek statement. GET OVER IT. Jenn Hobby, the true test to when you finally start making it is when the haters come out the woodwork. Baby, look like you are making it. Let losers hate while you make it happen in your life. Congrats on a opportunity that nobody on this board will ever get. Haters are like slinkys, not good for anything, but you laugh when you push them down the steps. I approve of this message.
Taylor
August 20th, 2010
5:59 pm
Oh my gosh…you dont step on the people on the way up because you see them on the way down. She called a band and band director (that represented Georgia) GEEKS. She overlooked the truly great thing that day when they interviewed some of the band students and band director. She was only looking out for herself. Well at least she has found someone because it sounded like she just wants to get married to anyone. You dont call high school band students and the band director geeks. Many students listen to Q100 and really respect these people. How can you hurt them by doing this. I respected Jen Hobby until this happened. She could have said something really good about that band, but lets just call them geeks and then get to the REAL story. How is your fiance principal suppose to even face the band at his own school now. She owes everyone an apology for that comment. However, I think she said what she really felt….she felt that the band coming into the studio that day was a waste and they were just a bunch of geeks. 105.7 here I come!!
A Concerned Parent
August 20th, 2010
6:46 pm
I am very concerned with the connection between the CHS Principal and Jenn Hobby especially after the comments made today. Is Grant really ready for this and to lose all control. How many hoops will you have to jump through…so Grant when are you moving wherever this girl wants? I am concerned with the students at CHS and her influence over you and OUR students.
S Clear
August 20th, 2010
6:58 pm
Jenn was so great… Such a natural..
Why us?
August 20th, 2010
6:59 pm
Why is it that anything that goes wrong seems to happen in Atlanta? Do I remember that same discussin on Q100 and the Bert Show many times? We always get national attention for something stupid in Atlanta…now that something stupid is Jenn Hobby’s comment. I guess you have to be “In a Band” like her ex husband to be cool….you CANT be in THE band, thats just geeky. I cannot believe anyone would say that it was okay to call high school students “Geeks.” Indulge me for a minute…Bert Show 7:00 in the morning…a caller calls and says that her son is in the band and was called a “geek” by a teacher WWJHS(WHAT WOULD JENN HOBBY SAY ABOUT THIS). Also, what would Jenn Hobby say if this happened to another radio or TV personality? I think she answers this every morning by stating her opinion on every subject under the sun. Jenn, so is the engagement still on or does your fiance care more about his students? Maybe you can report on yourself next week in the celebrity gossip. On the other hand, maybe WENDY will be reporting it in your place.
kim lively
August 20th, 2010
7:01 pm
Not a great showing from her. She looked too nervous and her geek comment was awkward. Hopefully that’s her last tv performance. Not impressed with the dress at all – looked like a Dress Barn markdown!
Wuss Hater
August 20th, 2010
7:07 pm
“Wah Wah Wah! Jenn Hobby called me a geek! My feelings are so hurt! I’m such a wuss! Where’s my mommy? I’m hurt! Wah!” That’s pretty much what you haters sound like. Pathetic.
SpartanBandGeek
August 20th, 2010
7:08 pm
she did call band members geeks….some of you need to watch it again. Dr. Rivera has got our back though…he is too good for her anyway. I guess the people who said she did good were never in band or have never been called names in high school. must be some of Jenns Friends. IDK :/
Really?
August 20th, 2010
7:11 pm
Wuss Hater equals Q100 intern
RadioGaGa
August 20th, 2010
7:17 pm
Thank goodness it was Jenn who got the gig and not that Star 94 Cindy with the grating voice. That didn’t stop her from lobbying for the gig day after day. As for Jenn, you go, girl!
Ex-listener
August 20th, 2010
7:29 pm
At least Cindy and Ray talk about relevant stuff and call themselves out if they mess up. I am so tired of the “holier than thou” Q100 and Jenn Hobby. All she did was talk about this day after day after day. All Jenn did was giggle and clap. Also, where did she get that dress from…the Goodwill Outlet? It sounds like Jenn and this new guy are made for each other. I guess we will have to see who ends up being #1 in the relationship. Hey, Melissa is learning the trombone for parade next year. Maybe Jenn could play the triangle. Okay, so Jenn, are you going to tear up on Monday about the whole situation? I know it will take a lot of acting, but you will be able to do it.
Fall Preview
August 20th, 2010
7:41 pm
Fall preview- Jenn Hobby joins the Real Housewives of Atlanta…Bert thanks Jenn for a successful ploy to get more publicity for Q100 by saying something controversial. Jenn begs fiance to run for Governor so she can have a bigger house. Coming Soon-Check your local listings.
Rodney sucks
August 20th, 2010
8:16 pm
Rodney. Must you always take below the belt jabs? While you may have a following and readers, don’t forget Jenn owns a mic 5 mornings a week… Here’s hoping she returns the favor and makes some disparaging comments about your personal life.
a lady who was taught well by my mom
August 20th, 2010
10:33 pm
Reading all the nasty posts from people who would hate to have their own life held under a microscope.
I am reminded by two things I have heard in my lifetime..that always resonant true.. My gracious and well mannered Mother taught me if you can’t say something nice…don’t say anything at all…and in the words of Rev. Run : Don’t hate, appreciate!
Blondebimbo
August 20th, 2010
11:05 pm
Wow! What a disappointment. This shallow gal was a poor choice for a national tv show. Stay local and stay classy Jenn!
A Geek
August 21st, 2010
5:13 am
I’m geeky and I was in the band and in our full uniform, yeah you feel geeky. But hey I get to miss the last couple of periods of school for a pep rally. Missed a few extra days on band trips. Marched in ticker tape parades and Mardi Gras. If that’s being geeky, Hey I was geeky. LOL Even though I don’t listen to them much anymore, congrats to Jenn for winning. Are the people being mean just to be mean or are they just jealous? Talking about her doesn’t make you look smell so rosy either.
B E Nice
August 21st, 2010
5:55 am
What a bunch of haters some of you are. I admire anyone who has the courage to put herself up for ridicule from some of you….Get a life…….Hope this gig opens up new horizons for you Jenn
Knows the Truth
August 21st, 2010
6:19 am
Rocket Mama,
You have no idea what you are saying concerning Mr. Rivera’s ex-wife. She NEVER cheated on him with her H.S. students! You say it is “documented.” That is boldface lie! Do not make comments about things of which you have no knowledge or “documents.” Sometimes marriages just don’t work out.
Yep!
August 21st, 2010
6:22 am
When did Jenn start saying “Yep!” Haha. Anyway, Rodney, your synopsis was neutral and just fine! Not only being called geeky, but these high school band members were called “little” … as though in elementary school. Oh, well. Regis should do a better job of listening. She had to tell him 3x that she had been at TBS for eight years. I thought it was a little awkward when Regis abruptly shifted to that book he was promoting.
bubba
August 21st, 2010
8:13 am
Bubble headed bleached blonde came on at 9, talked about band geeks with a gleam in her eye -
Ain't that the Truth, Ruth
August 21st, 2010
9:09 am
Can we get rid of the word, “foodie,” finally? A self-described foodie?? Don’t 99% of people like food? It is not noteworthy.
Ain't that the Truth, Ruth
August 21st, 2010
9:11 am
And yes, I too felt surprised and saddened when she called those kids “geeks.”
Teacher
August 21st, 2010
9:39 am
As a teacher, I am very disappointed by Ms. Hobby’s comments. Among the biggest issues that educators are facing, is the issue of bullying. States have adopted anti-bullying legislation and millions of dollars have been spent trying to curb bullying. In it’s extreme form, bullying has led to childhood murder and suicide. It all starts with name calling. I wish Ms. Hobby could spend a few days in my world. Her name-calling, however innocent, sets us back. Kids listen and look up to personalities and celebrities. I know that my students listen to Q100. If Ms. Hobby ever becomes a parent, I hope that her attitude and flip comments change. Also, I know Grant Rivera…he should be embarrassed but I’m afraid that he is actually more shallow than his fiancé. They are both embarrassing themselves and apparently don’t know it.
Blondebimbo
August 21st, 2010
10:03 am
I don’t think we are haters just because we called Jenn out on her “geeky” comment. This is a grown woman soon to be married to a principal, she is not a teenager. Flip comments like that show a person’s true colors. Regis looked pretty uncomfortable too.
Amy
August 21st, 2010
11:55 am
OKay 1st, I am a former band member, and I have many times described myself as a former band geek, as did most of the band members. So, if you were offended by that comment, get a backbone. Second, no one said anyone HAD to watch the show, so if you don’t like Jenn Hobby, then why did you watch it? Third, how many times have you been on national TV with millions watching you? She did a FANTASTIC job and represented Atlanta very well.
As for the Bert Show, once again, if you don’t like the cast members, DON’T LISTEN TO THE SHOW. I think they do a great job in the morning, and I listen every morning.
So if you are going to whine on here, don’t bother posting your comment. No one wants to read it.
Firstresponder
August 21st, 2010
1:07 pm
Amy, get a life, or, rent one. And while your at it brush up on the first amendment. You write like you are a Bert Show fan: simplistic (look it up).
alissa
August 21st, 2010
1:23 pm
Amy = Jeff Dauler! He loves to write “don’t listen to the show” instead of taking constructive criticism!
scott g
August 21st, 2010
9:34 pm
Some brutal folks commenting on here. Down right mean commenting on her appearance and her complexion, and her relationship. Wow im amazed how cruel you guys can be. Lets see how you guys do hosting on national tv. I was also in band and it didnt offend me at all. If you dont like her you dont have to watch her when she’s on tv or listen to the Bert show. Think about if it were you being judged, and try to be nice. Jenn did a great job and looked beautiful.
Atlanta
August 22nd, 2010
1:38 am
Scott G.: We did not apply for the job or campaign relentlessly to get people to vote us onto a national show. Nobody is saying they could’ve done a better job. If you choose a public career, you will be scrutinized…which is why many of us opt to not be a public figure. If listeners enjoy Bert, Jeff, and Melissa, we understand that we just have to put up with Wendy’s amazingly ignorant comments. (She’s an embarrassment to 20-somethings.) That little sausage needs to hush, if even for only a few minutes, to give us relief. Do you have any idea why this is called a “blog?” If it bothers you so much, don’t log into it. Now, go back to taping “Save That!” clips.
Willie Sue
August 22nd, 2010
6:52 am
Oh, come on. Why in the world get upset over that. It’s a shame that people are so darned sensitive. There are more important things in this world to get upset over. I have a daughter that could be called a “computer geek.” I don’t think that would offend her.
scott g
August 22nd, 2010
7:46 am
Atlanta, Just because jenn wanted to do the Regis gig doesnt mean it welcomes hateful comments. Yes it’s a blog and thats why I put my comment up, but not all the comments on here are mean spirited. When I read some of the comments I was shocked and thought thats going a little to far. Its one thing to say that you feel she didnt do a good job, but the comments talking about a wart on her face and a break out was just mean. Then there’s the one’s making comments about her relationship with Grant. Do you not have more important things to do instead of tearing someone down. I hope that if Jenn reads these she knows that most of the people support her and that she has thick skin for the haters…
Decie W. Hackett
August 22nd, 2010
8:33 am
I AM JENN.S GRANDMOTHER AND I COULD NOT BE PROUDER OF THE JOB SHE DID WITH REGIS. I HAVE READ THE NEGATIVE COMMENTS IN REGARD TO THE WORD “GEEK’. THIS WAS NOT USED IN MY DAY SO I DONT KNOW IF IT IS A DEROGATORY TERM OR NOT. I DO KNOW JENN WOULD NOT DELIBERATELY HURT ANYONE IN ANY WAY.AS FOR HER DRESS, I FELT IT WAS APPROPRIATE AND IN GOOD TASTE. LET THE NAYSAYERS TAKE A HIKE
Patty
August 22nd, 2010
8:56 am
I thought both Jenn and Grant did a very good job. The geek comment was just a slip because she was nervous and who wouldn’t be nervous on National TV. Give her a break. I suspect she will apologize for the slip on Monday and all the band kids will be just fine. She has done so much for them by helping to raise all that money for them to travel to DC to march in the inaugaration – I would hate to think the kids or their band director would hold a grudge.