Craig Melvin kicked off his exciting new role as co-anchor of NBC’s Today show on January 13, 2025, and what a memorable first day it was! Melvin replaced Hoda Kotb, who stepped down after a remarkable 17-year tenure, and he was met with a whirlwind of love, support, and wonderful surprises.
Welcome to the Co-Anchor Desk!
When Craig walked into the studio, the warm welcome from his fellow anchors set the tone for a fantastic day. Savannah Guthrie, one of the more familiar faces on the Today show, had some kind words ready. She praised Melvin’s passion for journalism and his extensive career achievements, making it clear that he was the perfect fit for this new chapter.
A Heartwarming Surprise from Family
One of the biggest surprises came from Craig’s family! Being a dad and husband is close to his heart, and he was overjoyed when his wife, Lindsay Czarniak, and their two adorable kids, Delano and Sybil, showed up to celebrate with him live on the air. There were joyful tears all around as Delano, age 10, called Craig a ‘great dad,’ prompting a heartwarming moment that brought a few tears to his eyes! Sybil, only 8, even shared a sweet note she wrote about her father—what a fantastic way to honor such a significant day!
Finding Inspiration and Role Models
During the broadcast, Craig Melvin spoke openly about the incredible people who inspired him, especially Bryant Gumbel. Gumbel has been a significant figure in journalism, particularly for Black broadcasters, and Melvin expressed gratitude for Gumbel’s influence on his career. He also mentioned Al Roker, a fellow anchor and mentor, highlighting how vital it is to serve as a role model for the next generation of aspiring journalists. Melvin’s role now allows him to inspire young viewers, showing them that they, too, can achieve great things.
A Special Tribute and Celebration
The day didn’t just bring cheers and surprises; it also featured a beautiful video montage showcasing Craig’s significant achievements over the years. Colleagues, former mentors, and even some fans sent in congratulatory messages, celebrating the journey that has led him to this momentous occasion. In addition, the community from Columbia, South Carolina, came together to honor him, declaring January 13th as ‘Craig Melvin Day.’ How cool is that? It truly shows the impact he has made!
Words of Encouragement from Hoda Kotb
Even Hoda Kotb, who Melvin is replacing, took the time to send a heartfelt tribute his way. In a pre-recorded message aired during the show, she expressed her confidence in Melvin’s abilities and applauded his incredible journey. Her words of encouragement show the bond and respect that exists among the anchors, which is inspiring to see.
Viewers Join in the Celebration
Fans of the Today show couldn’t help but feel the excitement radiating from the studio. Social media platforms buzzed with viewers sharing their own messages of congratulations, excitement, and support for Melvin. Whether they were long-time fans of the show or brand new viewers tuning in specifically for Melvin’s first day, it was clear that he has a strong fan base behind him.
Looking Ahead
As Craig Melvin embarks on this new chapter, the excitement is palpable. With a strong foundation of family support, the mentorship of respected figures in broadcasting, and the encouragement of his colleagues, it seems like the sky’s the limit for what he will accomplish on the Today show. One thing is for sure; his first day was not just about starting a new job; it was a heartfelt celebration of all that he has achieved and all the exciting moments still ahead.
Table: Key Moments from Craig Melvin’s First Day on Today
| Event | Description |
|---|---|
| Family Surprise | Craig’s wife and kids surprised him live on air |
| A montage highlighting Melvin’s career achievements aired | |
| Columbia declared January 13th as ‘Craig Melvin Day’ | |
| Hoda Kotb sent words of encouragement via a video message | |
| Melvin talked about the impact of Bryant Gumbel and Al Roker |