When a Friendly Bet Goes Public
So, here's the scoop: Craig Melvin found himself on the losing end of a friendly wager with his Today coanchor, Savannah Guthrie. This isn't just any bet—it's the kind that leaves a mark—literally. And that’s where things got interesting.
Let me break it down for you. Last week, Craig, who's 45, and Savannah, 53, decided to spice up the NFC Championship game with a little wager. Savannah, a die-hard Philadelphia Eagles fan, went head-to-head with Craig, who roots for the Washington Commanders. They agreed that whoever's team lost would have to do something truly memorable on air. And memorable it was!
Consequences of the Bet
Now, here's the kicker: the Commanders didn't pull through. So, poor Craig was left to face the music. But what exactly did that mean? Well, the fans had a say in this one. They voted on TODAY.com to decide what the punishment would be. And guess what? Craig ended up sporting a temporary tattoo of Savannah's face on a visible part of his body. Yep, you read that right. For the entire week, Craig had Savannah's visage inked on the back of his neck, proudly displayed for all to see during the Monday, January 27, episode of Today.
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“I haven’t even seen the picture,” Craig confessed, showing off the tattoo. And let’s just say, it wasn’t your typical design. The tattoo featured Savannah decked out in Eagles merchandise. Talk about dedication!
“Let this be a lesson,” Craig joked. “Don’t gamble.”
Cohosts React to Craig's New Ink
Of course, Craig wasn’t alone in this moment of truth. Cohosts Carson Daly, 51, and Al Roker, 70, were there to witness the unveiling. Carson had some words of wisdom for Craig about the longevity of these temporary tattoos. “My 10-year-old daughter wore one of these fake tattoos, and we couldn’t get it off for 6 months. So, Craig, if you’re at tubby time tonight and this doesn’t come off easily, don’t worry,” Carson quipped.
Savannah was over the moon about her team advancing to the Super Bowl to face the Kansas City Chiefs, but winning the bet seemed to be the cherry on top. The Eagles dominated the game, winning 55 to 23.
“Oh my God, it looks so good, Craig,” Savannah exclaimed after spotting the tattoo on her cohost's neck.
“I wish I could see it,” Craig replied, to which Savannah quipped, “Don’t worry, you’ll see it on TV!”
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And if that wasn’t enough, Savannah also gifted Craig a Saquon Barkley Eagles jersey. Talk about doubling down on the celebration!
Before the bet even took place, Al joked that if Craig lost, he’d be “going full Jelly Roll,” referencing the singer’s tattoo-covered look.
“Yeah, I guess, you’re right,” Craig responded confidently. “But that’s not gonna happen because the Commanders are gonna prevail.”
A New Era on the Show
Craig stepped into the coanchor role on January 13, following Hoda Kotb's departure. Since then, he’s been doing an impressive job sitting alongside Savannah at the news desk, leading the show with charm and professionalism.
Hoda, 60, left a heartfelt letter for Craig as he took over her spot. “Craig! I’m moving forward, so reach back your hand. Grab the baton, your world will expand. The adventures are endless … the people so dear,” she wrote. “Great memories await, year after year. Day One! You are ready surrounded by love. Your team is the kind you can only dream of. Savannah, Al and Carson are here! With partners like these, your runway is clear. From out on the plaza, to inside 30 Rock, Your fans are so eager, they’re watching the clock. The time has arrived to rise like the sun. I am cheering for you, and a fabulous run!”
