Craig Melvin is set to take over as anchor of the “Today” show, stepping in for Hoda Kotb, who will leave the show on January 10. The announcement was made on Thursday, and Savannah Guthrie expressed her excitement, calling Melvin’s promotion one of NBC News’ best decisions.
Hoda Kotb praised Melvin, saying, “You were made for this job. … You have all the things that this job needs. You’re the right person for it.” As Kotb prepares to depart after a remarkable 26 years at NBC, her successor is feeling both thankful and honored. Melvin shared that it means a lot to take on this role, especially since Kotb has been such a pivotal part of the show’s heart.
“I talked to my parents yesterday, and I’m grateful they can see this moment,” Melvin said, expressing his joy. He will continue to co-host the third hour of “Today” alongside Al Roker, Sheinelle Jones, and Dylan Dreyer.
This news follows Kotb’s surprise announcement in September about her exit. She reflected, “I decided this is the right time for me to kind of move on,” explaining that it was a tough decision for her. Although she will leave her current position, she plans to remain within the NBC family.
In addition to Melvin’s promotion, “Today with Hoda & Jenna” will be rebranded as “Jenna & Friends,” where co-host Jenna Bush Hager will try out various temporary replacements until a permanent co-host is chosen.
Kotb began her career at NBC in 1998 and made her mark as co-host of the “Today” show’s fourth hour in 2008, teaming up with Kathie Lee Gifford. After Gifford left in 2019, she co-hosted alongside Bush Hager. Since the departure of Matt Lauer in 2018, Kotb has also served as Guthrie’s co-anchor.
Melvin, who joined NBC in 2011, has built a strong reputation within the network. Senior Vice President Libby Leist expressed enthusiasm for Melvin’s new role, highlighting his extensive experience, which ranges from covering breaking news to interviewing presidents and reporting from major events.
To celebrate Melvin’s promotion, the team took shots in the studio, honoring his well-known love for bourbon.
