When Hoda Kotb heard the news that Craig Melvin would be taking her place on Today, her reaction was pure joy. The smile on her face said it all—she couldn’t have been happier with the decision. Sure, she didn’t have a say in it, but deep down, she knows Craig was the right choice to fill her shoes.
A Big Announcement That Left Hoda Beaming
According to an insider who spoke exclusively to Closer, the announcement was made on the show on Thursday, November 14, and it was a moment that resonated with everyone in the studio and beyond. "She had no say in the decision, but she thinks Craig was a good choice," the source revealed. Hoda, who’s been a beloved anchor on Today for years, is now preparing for the next chapter in her life, and she couldn’t be more excited about the future.
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Hoda’s Decision: A New Chapter Awaits
Hoda Kotb, who recently turned 60, made her announcement on September 26 that she plans to leave Today in early 2025. Her decision? To spend more quality time with her two daughters, Haley and Hope. It’s a bittersweet moment for her, as she’s sad to close this chapter of her life, but she’s not regretting her choice one bit. "She’s not regretting her decision to leave, she’s still very excited about moving on, but Craig’s announcement just made it more real," the source added.
Craig Melvin’s Reaction: Gratitude and Excitement
Craig Melvin, the 45-year-old anchor, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to NBC for promoting him to officially co-anchor the early morning hours of the show alongside Savannah Guthrie. Hailing from South Carolina, Craig took a moment to express his thanks during the announcement. "I am beyond excited and grateful," he said. "I want to thank NBC and the folks here who deemed me worthy. And I have to start by thanking the man upstairs, thank you my Lord above and his son, Jesus. I've enjoyed just a lifetime of blessings, and this is the latest in a long line of blessings."
He also shared a touching moment about his parents. "I talked to Mom and Dad yesterday and I’m grateful they’re still young enough to see this and enjoy the fruits of their labor," he added.
A Legacy to Uphold
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Craig expressed his admiration for Hoda and her impact on the show. "It means a lot to inherit this from you," he told Hoda. "You helped save the show and to be able to sit next to someone who I knew was smart for years and all of a sudden you start working with her and you’re like, 'Wait a minute, she’s funny too!'" Craig went on to say that Savannah, 52, and Hoda are like "sisters that I never knew that I needed." It’s clear that the bond between these anchors runs deep, and Craig feels incredibly fortunate to be stepping into such a close-knit group.
Craig’s wife, Lindsay Czarniak, also took to Instagram to celebrate her husband’s big moment. "The opportunity to watch the person you love see their dream come true is such a gift," she wrote alongside several photos with Craig. "I will never forget this day and the crowds’ excitement to share your good news." Fans of the show were thrilled to learn that Craig, one of NBC’s most beloved anchors, will officially take Hoda’s seat at the news desk starting January 13.
Fans Can’t Wait to See What’s Next
The comments on Today’s official Instagram account were filled with excitement and congratulations for Craig. "Congratulations to Craig!!! So happy for you and looking forward to many more years of my morning coffee with you!!!" one fan wrote. Another added, "Best decision ever!! Congratulations and we in SC are so proud of you!!! Blessings." One long-time viewer even shared, "We love him. Ya’ll are the real deal. Genuine and kind. How refreshing! Watched @todayshow since 1954 … and Dave Garroway days! I’m old!!!!!"
A behind-the-scenes video posted on Today’s Instagram showed fans chanting Craig’s name out on the Today plaza. In the clip, Craig appeared to wipe a tear from his eye, and Savannah and Hoda were there to comfort him during this emotional moment. It’s clear that the bond within the Today family is strong and unbreakable.
