‘Today’ Hoda Kotb Gives New Replacement Huge Props

Hoda Kotb’s replacement was announced a couple of months ahead of the turnover on Today. While there were several portions, including bringing up someone new to be the new face of the morning talk show, the series went with a familiar face.

Here is who is replacing Hoda Kotb and what she had to say about it.

Hoda Kotb Replacement Named On Today

Almost two months after Hoda Kotb announced she was leaving her position as co-host of Today in January, NBC announced her replacement. Instead of bringing up someone from another show to a high-profile position, Today chose someone from within.

Today announced that Craig Melvin would end up promoted to the co-host spot alongside Savannah Guthrie in January 2025. The change over will officially happen on January 13, 2025. Hoda’s last day as the co-host will be on Friday, January 10.

This is a move-up for Craig, who was already working on Today as the co-host of the third hour with Al Roker, Sheinelle Jones, and Dylan Dreyer. However, he isn’t leaving that role. Craig will now host three hours in a row when he moves up to replace Hoda.

Al Roker congratulated Melvin virtually. This was huge for him as well, since Craig said that Al was the one person who made him feel at home when he joined Today. Al has always been there to help him out when needed and was proud of the promotion.

“I knew this day would come,” Roker said. “I am so proud and so happy for you right now. You are so worthy of this. I almost don’t have the words. I love you.”

Hoda Kotb Praises Craig Melvin As Her Today Replacement

Hoda Kotb praised Craig Melvin after the announcement was made. She was shining as she said he was perfect for the role. “You are made for this job,” Kotb said (via PEOPLE). “You are literally made for this job; You are that kind of good; You have all the things that this job needs. You’re the right person for it.”

Craig Melvin was more than accepting of the praise and delivered some back to Hoda Kotb. “It means a lot to inherit this from you. 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 said.

This also comes after Craig said that Hoda and Savannah were the “sisters that I never knew that I needed.”

What are your thoughts on Craig Melvin replacing Hoda Kotb on Today? Do you think he is a great replacement for the co-host? How did you like her praising him as the news broke? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.