Craig Melvin chose to replace Hoda Kotb on the ‘Today’ show

NEW YORK (AP) – Veteran NBC host and news anchor Craig Melvin has been approached replace Hoda Kotb as co-host of 7.00 to 9.00 of “I dag”.

Melvin is a familiar face to “Today” show viewers. He currently hosts the third hour of the show and is the news anchor for the first two hours. He continues to host the third hour with Al Roker, Dylan Dreyer and Sheinelle Jones.

“He has been an integral and beloved part of our family,” Libby Leist, senior vice president of “Today,” said in a statement. “From breaking news coverage in the field, to presidential interviews, to multiple Olympics and Super Bowls, Craig has shown he has the talent and range to cover everything we do here at ‘Today.’ And he does it without ever losing it southern charm.”

Kotb’s last official day on the show will be January 10. She announced in September that she would be leaving “Today,” which ranks third overall in the morning ratings for ABC’s “Good Morning America.” NBC News has not disclosed the casting for Kotb’s second role, co-anchoring the 10 o’clock hour, which she does alongside Jenna Bush Hager.

“I’ve enjoyed a lifetime of nothing but blessings, and this is the latest,” Melvin said Thursday on air. Of Kotb and Guthrie, he said, “You are the sisters I never thought I needed.” And he said of Kotb — “you saved the show,” which, while hyperbolic, was a reference to her quickly taking over after Matt Lauer scandal.

Melvin’s wife, sportscaster Lindsay Czarniak, who hosted NBC’s coverage of the 2024 Paris Olympics on USA Network, posted her congratulations on Instagram.

“The opportunity to see the person you love see their dream come true is such a gift. I will never forget this day and the excitement of the crowds to share your good news,” she wrote.