On the Today show, a discussion about getting “high school drunk” prompted co-host Jenna Bush Hager to issue an impromptu public service announcement against underage drinking.
The conversation began when hosts Bush Hager and Willie Geist referenced a recent interview where actor George Clooney admitted to getting “high school drunk” and feeling “sick all day” as a result.
Geist noted that Clooney, who owns a tequila company, “probably partook some of his own medicine.” He added that he doesn’t consider himself a “huge drinker,” which Bush Hager clarified by saying, “You’re not a huge drinker because you don’t drink to get drunk.”
Both hosts agreed they no longer enjoy the experience Clooney described, with Bush Hager observing that the aftermath is worse with age. “Like [when you’re] high school drunk, you don’t feel bad the next day,” she remarked.
Her comment prompted her to turn to the camera and issue a hasty clarification. “Even though you’re not supposed to be getting drunk in high school, just a PSA. Don’t do it,” she said, quickly adding, “I meant college!”
Geist supported her correction, interjecting, “No, it’s against the law,” and suggesting she meant “senior year of college, when you’re 21.” After Bush Hager jokingly revised her statement to “24-year-old drunk,” Geist steered the segment to a new topic, ending the increasingly awkward exchange.
