Hoda Kotb Exits ‘Today Show,’ Craig Melvin Steps In as Co-Anchor

NEW YORK — Longtime “Today Show” co-host Hoda Kotb bid farewell to the NBC morning program on Friday, Jan. 10, after 17 years, leaving fans and colleagues emotional. Craig Melvin, a veteran journalist at NBC, has officially taken over as co-anchor alongside Savannah Guthrie, marking a new chapter for the iconic show.

Kotb described her departure as the “hardest thing in the world,” calling it a “monumental” moment that made her reflect on the next decade of her life. Her exit coincided with the unexpected absence of third-hour co-host Sheinelle Jones, who was missing from the show during Kotb’s final week. Weathercaster Al Roker briefly acknowledged Jones’ absence, stating, “Sheinelle is off,” but no further details were provided.

Melvin, who has been with NBC and MSNBC since 2011, expressed gratitude and excitement about his new role. “I’m beyond excited and grateful,” he said during his debut as co-anchor. “I wanted to thank NBC and the folks here who deemed me worthy…I have enjoyed just a lifetime of blessings, and this is the latest in a long line of blessings.”

Kotb left a heartfelt handwritten poem for Melvin, hidden in the office, encouraging him to embrace his new role. The poem read, in part: “Craig! / I’m moving forward, so reach back your hand. / Grab the baton, your world will expand.” She signed off with “XOXO Hoda,” leaving Melvin visibly moved.

Melvin’s family also surprised him on his first day, with his wife, Lindsay Czarniak, and parents offering words of encouragement. His son Delando said, “He’s a great dad and he deserves to be here,” bringing Melvin to tears.

Kotb’s departure marks the end of an era for “Today,” where she became a beloved figure known for her warmth and humor. In a tribute video, Guthrie praised Kotb, saying, “She’s so special, it’s almost beyond description.” The two shared an emotional moment, with Guthrie joking, “If I don’t do this interview, does that mean she won’t leave?”

Meanwhile, Jenna Bush Hager, who co-hosted the fourth hour with Kotb, announced that actress Scarlett Johansson will temporarily join her as a rotating co-host until a permanent replacement is named. This move is part of a broader reshuffling at “Today” following Kotb’s exit.

As Melvin steps into his new role, he carries the support of his colleagues, family, and fans. “Craig, you are made for this job,” Kotb said during her final days. “You are that kind of good. You have all the things that this job needs. You’re the right person for it.”