The Today Show is entering a new chapter following significant adjustments to its hosting lineup, primarily instigated by the departure of long-time anchor Hoda Kotb. Craig Melvin will step onto the stage as co-anchor, opening the door to fresh energy and dynamics within the beloved morning talk show.
Hoda Kotb, who anchored the show for over seven years and had been with NBC for nearly three decades, officially bid farewell on January 10, 2025. Her exit prompted heartfelt reactions from co-workers, viewers, and fans. Kotb, 60, was celebrated during her last broadcast, where emotions ran high as she expressed gratitude for her time with the show. She humorously remarked, "Craig, I mean, I’m so happy for you. You have earned this. You own this," before cheekily adding, "And come Monday at 7:00 AM, I am going to be dead asleep," prompting laughter from the studio audience.
Craig Melvin, who has been with NBC for 14 years and has co-hosted the show’s third hour, will officially take his place alongside Savannah Guthrie starting January 13, 2025. Announcing his new role back on November 14, he expressed his excitement, declaring, "I am beyond excited and grateful. This is the latest in a long line of blessings." Craig will continue to co-host the third hour of the show alongside Al Roker, Dylan Dreyer, and Sheinelle Jones.
Fans reacted positively to Craig’s promotion, leaving comments such as, "SO PROUD OF YOU, BRO!! You were DESTINED for this!! GO GET IT!!" on social media platforms. The loyal viewer base of the Today Show seems enthusiastic about this new era and supportive of both Craig's rise to co-anchor and the transition from Hoda’s leadership.
After Hoda’s departure, the fourth hour of Today, previously known as Today with Hoda & Jenna, will now be titled Today with Jenna & Friends and feature guest co-hosts until Hoda's permanent successor is appointed. Celebrity appearances from Taraji P. Henson, Eva Longoria, Keke Palmer, and Scarlett Johansson are lined up as part of this transition. Jenna Bush Hager, who will lead this segment, has expressed her excitement about having friends and familiar faces on the show, aiming to capture the essence of friendship during the new format.
Craig’s first day is set to be filled with tributes, surprises, and emotional moments. During the program, he will reflect on his new responsibilities and the legacy he aims to continue. Passionate about his broadcasting career, Craig stated, "You’ve sat there so many times but this morning is special. Let’s go, this is going to be a beautiful ride," as he joined Savannah to kick off their inaugural show as co-anchors. His excitement is palpable as he embraces this significant opportunity.
Behind these changes, the Today Show hosts have voiced their strong backing for Craig Melvin. Savannah, visibly thrilled about her new partnership, explained on-air how the team reacted when news of Craig's promotion got around. "The larger staff found out this morning, and people broke out in applause. This is one of the most popular decisions NBC News has ever made. Congratulations!" She beset him with cheers and camaraderie, echoing sentiments felt by others during this transition.
Craig’s colleagues, including Hoda Kotb, have been supportive throughout this transition, emphasizing Craig's suitability for the role. Hoda highlighted his qualifications, mentioning, "Craig, you are going to do so good. You and Savannah are going to be magic." Al Roker also chimed in, expressing pride in Craig’s career progress and reminding viewers of his longstanding presence within NBC News. "I knew this day would come. I am so proud and happy for you right now because you are so worthy of this. And I almost don’t have the words," Al narrated during the celebratory segment.
Craig's inaugural episode will not only celebrate his career but also focus on honoring Hoda’s legacy. A montage of Craig's growth within the Today Show family is expected to surprise viewers, shedding light on the emotional impact both he and Hoda have had on the show's legacy and viewer base.
The Today Show viewers are undoubtedly curious about how the new dynamics will pan out between Craig and Savannah as they lead the morning broadcast. The anticipation built through social media commentary adds to the excitement of how the addition of Craig will refresh the show’s format without losing its quintessential charm.
With the promise of surprises, laughter, and heartfelt moments, Craig Melvin is set to make his mark as co-anchor, striving to uphold the values instilled by Hoda. With the audience’s well wishes and expectations soaring high, the upcoming weeks will be pivotal for both Craig and the beloved Today Show.
At its core, the Today Show transitions reflect not only the personal journeys of those involved but also the emotional connection it maintains with its audience. The excitement surrounding Craig's promotion signals viewer support and hope for how the show will continue to adapt and flourish under new leadership. Fans will tune in to watch not just the news, but also to witness how friendships and new beginnings shape the show moving forward.