Jenna Bush Hager’s heart is heavy as she navigates a challenging moment with her 11-year-old daughter, Mila.
During a candid chat with Hoda Kotb on October 2, Jenna shared the heartbreaking news that Mila’s beloved cat, Hollywood, has been missing since this past summer. The situation unfolded when Hollywood, affectionately called Holly, slipped out the front door during a lively kids’ birthday party.
A Mother’s Guilt
“It was kind of my fault,” Jenna admitted, revealing her struggle with feelings of guilt over the incident.
Mila adored Holly, often cradling her like a precious baby. The loss has profoundly impacted her, leaving Jenna feeling a deep sense of responsibility.
After Hollywood’s escape, Mila was devastated and spent three nights cuddled up in her mom’s bed. These intimate sleepovers opened a new chapter in their relationship, allowing them to share “beautiful” conversations about life, love, pain, and loss.
The Search for Hollywood
In the months that followed, Jenna and her husband, Henry Hager, have been relentless in their efforts to find Hollywood. Their family has done everything possible to search for their missing feline, but as time passed, they began to consider welcoming a new pet into their home.
“On Sunday, we went and met a little baby kitty, which Mila is going to be adopting,” Jenna joyfully announced. “So, we’re going to have a new member of our household, and hopefully, Holly will come back and meet this little kitty!”
A Tough Transition
Hoda Kotb recalled the emotional toll this journey has taken on Jenna. “Sometimes, right before we went on air, you were crying—not just about the loss of your cat but about Mila,” she said.
Mila has expressed her feelings through heartfelt messages sent to Jenna while using her computer at school, including notes that read, “Mommy, I miss her so much.”
The introduction of a new cat brings a glimmer of hope for the family, especially for Mila, who is counting down the days until the adoption is finalised.
“Mila said to me, ‘I haven’t stopped thinking about her all day,’” Jenna shared, highlighting her daughter’s enduring love for Hollywood.
Family Connections and New Beginnings
Earlier this year, Mila’s sister, Poppy, adopted a kitten named Mango. Jenna fondly recalled how she introduced Mango to the family.
“Introducing the newest member of the Hager fam … Mango! Poppy’s new kitten! And he’s already best friends with his sister Hollywood,” Jenna captioned an Instagram post in January, showing her family’s love for their pets.
Now, as they prepare to welcome another furry friend, Jenna hopes that Mango will embrace his new sibling.
Coping with Loss and Embracing Change
Losing a pet is never easy. It brings feelings of grief and loss that can linger for a long time. Yet, for families like the Hagers, embracing new beginnings can help heal those wounds.
By adopting a new kitten, Mila and Jenna are taking steps toward healing while keeping Hollywood’s memory alive. Pets hold a special place in our hearts, and the love we share with them never truly fades.
Conclusion: A Family’s Love Endures
While Jenna Bush Hager’s family faces the pain of Hollywood’s disappearance, they are also looking forward to new adventures with a little kitten.
In sharing their story, Jenna reminds us that love and hope can shine through even in our darkest moments. Fingers crossed that Hollywood returns home, but until then, the Hagers are ready to open their hearts to another furry companion.
