Craig Melvin will replace Hoda Kotb as co-anchor of the 'TODAY' show from

Craig Melvin to Replace Hoda Kotb on NBC's 'TODAY' Show

NBCUniversal Announces Major Shakeup in Morning Lineup

After nearly a decade as co-anchor of NBC's 'TODAY' show, Hoda Kotb will step down from her role and be replaced by Craig Melvin. The announcement, made by NBCUniversal on Tuesday, marks a significant shift in the morning lineup and comes as the network looks to bolster its ratings and appeal to a wider audience.

Melvin's Rise to Prominence

Craig Melvin, a veteran journalist with over 20 years of experience, has been a prominent figure on NBC News since joining the network in 2011. He has served as a correspondent for 'TODAY,' 'NBC Nightly News,' and 'Dateline NBC,' and has hosted several specials and documentaries for the network. Melvin's strong reporting skills, engaging personality, and ability to connect with viewers have made him a popular choice for the 'TODAY' show's co-anchor role.

Kotb's Departure and Legacy

Hoda Kotb, who has co-anchored 'TODAY' since 2018, will depart the show to focus on other projects within NBCUniversal. During her time on 'TODAY,' Kotb has become a beloved figure for her warmth, empathy, and relatable storytelling. She has played a key role in the show's success, helping to make it one of the most-watched morning news programs in the United States.

Melvin's New Role and Future of 'TODAY'

Craig Melvin will assume his new role as co-anchor of 'TODAY' on January 23, 2023. He will join current co-anchors Savannah Guthrie and Al Roker in the show's flagship hour from 7-9 AM ET. NBCUniversal is confident that Melvin's addition to the team will bring fresh perspectives and a renewed energy to 'TODAY.' The network is also making other changes to its morning lineup, including the addition of a new third hour of 'TODAY' from 9-10 AM ET. This new hour will be hosted by Sheinelle Jones, Dylan Dreyer, and Jenna Bush Hager, who will transition from their current roles on 'TODAY's Third Hour.' NBCUniversal's shakeup of its morning lineup is a strategic move designed to address the changing media landscape and the evolving preferences of viewers. By bringing in a new generation of talent and offering a more diverse and inclusive lineup, the network aims to maintain its dominance in the morning news market and continue to deliver high-quality journalism to its audience.