Craig Melvin to succeed Hoda Kotb as co-host of NBC’s ‘Today’

On November 14, 2024By Littum

NBC’s “Today” keeps the choice of its next co-host in the family.

The network announced Thursday that veteran anchor Craig Melvin, part of the network’s morning franchise since 2016, will take over for the departing Hoda Kotb. Starting January 14, Melvin Kotb will occupy the chair with Savannah Guthrie during the program’s flagship two hours from 7.00 to 9.00.

Kotb, 60, who replaced Matt Lauer after he was fired amid sexual harassment allegations in 2017, announced in September that she is leaving the show to spend more time with her young children.

A woman with short brown hair staring off into the distance wearing a red coat

Melvin, 44, currently serves as news anchor and co-host of the show’s third hour. He also hosts the syndicated version of the news magazine “Dateline”.

NBC News expects Melvin to make for a smooth transition as he is well known to regular viewers of the show. He has handled major political interviews and often traveled to cover major news stories during his tenure at “Today.” He has also been part of NBC’s coverage of the Olympic Games and six Super Bowls.

“Craig has shown that he has the talent and range to cover everything we do here at ‘Today,'” Libby Leist, senior vice president of “Today,” said Thursday in a statement. “And he does it without ever losing that southern charm.”

The South Carolina native joined NBC News in 2011. He had been a weekend anchor at NBC’s Washington station WRC. He is married to Lindsay Czarniak, a sports reporter and anchor who has worked for Fox and ESPN.

Carson Daly, Craig Melvin, Savannah Gutrie, Hoda Kotb and Al Roker on the set of NBC's "Today."

Melvin is also the author of “Pops,” a memoir about his relationship with his father, who overcame addictions to alcohol and gambling.

Melvin will continue to host the third hour of “Today” with Al Roker, Dylan Dreyer and Sheinelle Jones.

NBC News announced that it will take its time to replace Kotb in the 10 o’clock slot for the show she co-hosts with Jenna Bush Hager. The hour will be called “Jenna & Friends” until a permanent co-host is named.