Imagine a world where underage drinking is discussed openly, with a touch of humor and a dash of nostalgia. That’s exactly what happened on a recent episode of Today With Jenna & Friends, where Jenna Bush Hager and Matt Rogers dove into their own youthful escapades with alcohol. But here’s where it gets controversial: Is it ever okay to laugh about underage drinking, or does it normalize risky behavior? Let’s dive in.
The show kicked off with Jenna and Matt swapping stories about their teenage years, blending humor with a candid look at a topic many parents and teens grapple with. After Jenna praised Matt for his charm with moms—a skill he honed in high school by chatting up parents while his friends sneaked drinks—the conversation took a playful turn. Matt admitted, ‘I’d distract the moms while my friends made drinks.’ Jenna’s response? ‘I could’ve used you in high school!’ The pair even joked about Matt bonding with former First Lady Laura Bush while Jenna mixed drinks in the background.
And this is the part most people miss: Jenna didn’t just admit to underage drinking—she shared her drink of choice: wine coolers. ‘I kept it classy,’ she quipped, sparking both laughter and a moment of reflection. Meanwhile, Matt recalled his first drink outside a friend’s house on Long Island, describing it as a ‘little heathens’ moment in the dark. ‘That’s Long Island for you,’ he added with a laugh.
While the segment was lighthearted, it raises a question: Does laughing about underage drinking trivialize its risks, or does it open the door for honest conversations? Jenna and Matt’s banter certainly made it relatable, but it’s worth asking: Where do we draw the line between humor and responsibility?
Looking ahead, Matt Rogers will continue guest-hosting Today With Jenna & Friends this week, with special guests Lili Reinhart and Aziz Ansari joining the fun. Catch the show weekdays at 10/9c on NBC.
Now, here’s the real question for you: Is it okay to laugh about underage drinking, or does it send the wrong message? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s keep the conversation going!
