Hoda Kotb Says She’s “So Happy” Craig Melvin Will Be Replacing Her On ‘Today’: “He’s So Deserving Of This”

By Radhamely De Leon
Published Nov. 14, 2024, 1:31 p.m. ET

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Craig Melvin

It’s been a big day at NBC.

The network announced Craig Melvin will be replacing Hoda Kotb on the early hours of Today as Savannah Guthrie‘s new co-anchor. Kotb celebrated the news alongside Jenna Bush Hager during the 10 o’clock hour, where they also hyped up their show’s new rebrand.

Kotb only had words of praise for Melvin, who she said is “so deserving” of this new role.

“We are so excited that our friend, Craig Melvin will be taking over the 7 next to Savannah,” she said on Today With Hoda & Jenna. “I’m so happy for this guy. Because number one, he’s a good human being, he’s one of those guys who’s worked hard and done all the right things.”

She added, “I’ve said to Craig, I said, ‘Honey, you’re made for this job.’ When he walks outside and he sees the crowd, that’s his happy place. That’s where he shines.”

Bush Hager agreed. “We’re so thrilled for him,” she said.

During the earlier hours of Today, Kotb and Melvin shared a touching moment, surrounded by their co-anchors. “You are that kind of good. You have all the things that this job needs,” she said.

Kotb also announced that her final day on the air is officially set for Friday, Jan. 10, which will also mark the end of her time on Hoda & Jenna.

While Bush Hager said Kotb’s exit will certainly be “bittersweet,” she seemed optimistic about the next phase for the 10 a.m. hour of Today which will be temporarily rebranded as Today With Jenna & Friends starting Jan. 13, featuring a rotating panel of guest hosts.

Bush Hager joked that this will be her chance to get back into the dating pool.

“Hoda, you know this, I’m a serial monogamous. I met [my husband] Henry Hager 20 years ago and that was it,” she said. “I met Hoda, I fell so madly in love with you so quickly and we’ve had these years together which have been some of the best of my entire life. But here’s the thing: It’s time for me to get out there guys.”

She joked, “You know the new trend roster dating? That’s what I’m going to be doing. I’m single, not at home, but in this work life, I am single and I am ready to mingle.”

Today with Hoda & Jenna airs on weekdays at 10/9c on NBC.