Nearly two months after Hoda Kotb announced her departure from the TODAY show, viewers now know that Craig Melvin will take her place as co-anchor alongside Savannah Guthrie during the 7 and 8 a.m. hours. His new role will officially begin on Monday, January 13, following Hoda’s farewell on Friday, January 10.
Craig expressed his excitement about the transition, stating, “I am beyond excited and grateful,” referring to this opportunity as a significant blessing in his career. The announcement was met with enthusiastic applause from the NBC News staff, with Savannah commenting, “This is one of the most popular decisions NBC News has ever made. Congratulations.”
Having spent nearly 14 years at NBC News, Craig has held various roles, including weekend co-anchor and his current position as co-host of the 3rd hour of TODAY. He will continue in that role alongside Al Roker, Dylan Dreyer, and Sheinelle Jones. He is also a family man, married to sports broadcaster Lindsay Czarniak and a father to two children.
Libby Leist, senior vice president of TODAY, praised Craig’s work, highlighting his extensive experience covering major events and his charming persona. Hoda also expressed her confidence in Craig, stating, “You have all the things that this job needs. You’re the right person for it.”
In conjunction with Craig’s promotion, there will be changes to TODAY with Hoda & Jenna. The fourth hour will become TODAY with Jenna & Friends starting January 13, featuring a variety of rotating co-hosts until a permanent replacement is found. The TODAY team plans to celebrate Hoda throughout her final shows in January.
Hoda shared her decision to leave the show on September 26, explaining that she felt it was time to pursue new opportunities as she entered her 60s. Reflecting on her departure, she noted, “I realized that it was time for me to turn the page at 60, and to try something new.”
As Craig steps into this new role, the support and admiration from his colleagues highlight the positive direction of the TODAY show. The team’s focus on both honoring Hoda’s contributions and celebrating Craig’s new chapter suggests a bright future for the iconic morning program.
This transition not only showcases Craig Melvin’s talents but also emphasizes the importance of growth and change in a career. Such shifts can lead to fresh perspectives and renewed energy within a team, paving the way for exciting developments for viewers in the days to come.