Craig Melvin Takes Over as Co-Anchor of ‘Today’ Show

Craig Melvin, a well-known figure in NBC's broadcasting landscape, has officially been named as Hoda Kotb's replacement on the iconic morning show, Today. This announcement, made on November 14, 2024, confirmed that Melvin will begin his new role on January 13, 2025, lining up to anchor alongside Today stalwart Savannah Guthrie.

Transition and Departure of Hoda Kotb

Hoda Kotb, who has been a fixture on the Today show for over 26 years, announced her decision to step down from her co-anchor position in September. She expressed her desire to focus more on her children and stated that turning the page at this stage in her life felt right. Kotb's emotional farewell will occur on January 10, 2025, just days before Melvin takes the helm alongside Guthrie.

In her heartfelt send-off, Kotb praised Melvin, stating, "You are made for this job. You have all the things that this job needs. You're the right person for it." She also reflected on how Melvin has been a part of the Today team, having joined as a news anchor in 2018.

Craig Melvin's Background and Credentials

At 45 years old, Craig Melvin has already built an impressive career at NBC. Prior to joining Today, he anchored at MSNBC and gained popularity through his engaging presentation and versatility on the news front. Since 2018, he has co-hosted the show's third hour alongside Al Roker, Sheinelle Jones, and Dylan Dreyer.

Melvin expressed his excitement about his new role during the announcement, saying, "I am beyond excited and grateful. I’ve enjoyed just a lifetime of blessings, and this is the latest in a long line of blessings." The respect between him and Kotb was evident as they both exchanged praises and fond memories of their time together.

A Significant Gap to Fill

With Hoda Kotb stepping away, Melvin has big shoes to fill. He'll be responsible for maintaining the show's strong viewership, which has recently averaged 2.9 million viewers per episode, topping rival networks like ABC's Good Morning America. This overwhelming interest in Today emphasizes its significance in morning television and as a key revenue driver for NBC News.

The Future of the ‘Today’ Show

As Melvin transitions into his role, the structure of Today will remain relatively unchanged. He will be hosting three hours of the show, which includes the 9 a.m. hour alongside familiar faces. Additionally, the fourth hour will still be hosted by Jenna Bush Hager, with plans for special rotating guest co-hosts until a permanent co-host is appointed.

Regarding the show's sailing forward, Guthrie noted the seamless nature of the transition with Melvin, highlighting his adaptability and range: "He can do hard news, he can do the fun stuff, and doesn't take himself too seriously."

Looking Ahead

Moving forward, Craig Melvin's role will not only depend on carrying forward the legacy built by Kotb but also on creating his own identity within the Today show format. As he prepares to co-anchor, there's anticipation among viewers and colleagues alike to see how he will evolve within this prestigious position.

“There’s a reason that the Today show has been on the air for more than 70 years,” Melvin articulated. His dedication to engaging viewers and continuing the tradition of quality journalism will be crucial as he embarks on this new journey.

Craig Melvin is not just stepping into an anchor seat; he is stepping into a legacy—one that has shaped the mornings of millions across America.