Hoda Kotb's "Today" Replacement: Craig Melvin & What's Next?

As the sun sets on an era of morning television, the recent announcement of a changing of the guard at NBC's "Today" show has sparked intense speculation and anticipation amongst its devoted viewers.

The shift, a carefully orchestrated transition, follows the decision of veteran television anchor Hoda Kotb to step away from her leading role on the long-running show. This departure, confirmed in early 2025, marks a significant change for the program and its audience. The official announcement of her replacement came on November 14th, solidifying the beginning of a new chapter for the iconic morning show.

Full Name	Hoda Kotb
Date of Birth	August 9, 1964
Age	60 (as of March 7, 2024)
Place of Birth	Norman, Oklahoma, U.S.
Education	Virginia Tech (B.A. in Broadcast Journalism)
Career	Television journalist, author, and television personality
Known For	Co-anchor of NBC's "Today" show, host of "Today with Hoda & Jenna"
Years Active	1986Present
Notable Works	"Today" show, "Dateline NBC", "Hoda Kotb: I Really Needed This Today" (book)
Awards	Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Morning Program (as part of the "Today" team)
Marital Status	Single
Children	Haley Joy Kotb, Hope Catherine Kotb
Website	NBC News Profile

The news, initially shared by Kotb herself on a Thursday morning broadcast, revealed the identity of her successor in the 7 a.m. hours of the show: Craig Melvin. Melvin, a familiar face to "Today" viewers, steps into the role, promising a smooth transition and a continuation of the show's legacy. This move will see Jenna Bush Hager, who currently co-hosts the fourth hour with Kotb, navigating a new format.

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The program, in a move that reflects the changing landscape, will shift from "Today with Hoda & Jenna" to "Today with Jenna & Friends." This evolution allows Bush Hager to embark on a search for a new co-host for the fourth hour. The early morning hours will now be spearheaded by Melvin, ensuring that the core of "Today" remains strong.

Kotb's tenure on the morning program began in 2007, and she initially served as a correspondent. Over the years, she ascended to become a beloved journalist and television icon, known for her warmth, insightful interviews, and genuine connection with viewers. This impact makes her departure a poignant moment for both the audience and the show's staff.

An insider has exclusively reported on the anticipation surrounding Kotb's departure, highlighting the significance of the decision regarding her replacement on the fourth hour. This decision is of great importance, and the transition is expected to be a carefully considered one.

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The shows transition has been a closely watched event, with much speculation centered on who would fill the void left by Kotb's departure. While the 7 a.m. hour has found its answer in Craig Melvin, the fourth hour's future remains open.

Kotb's departure, and the subsequent reshuffling, has caused some shifts in programming. One of the primary questions centers around the future of the fourth hour, which has been a fan favorite for years. Since 2019, Kotb co-hosted this hour with Jenna Bush Hager, creating a dynamic that resonated with viewers. Prior to that, Kotb shared the screen with Kathie Lee Gifford for over a decade, building a loyal following.

During her time on "Today," Jenna Bush Hager has cultivated a strong rapport with a wide range of Hollywood personalities, including Scarlett Johansson, Eva Longoria, and Taraji P. Henson. Bush Hager, who has hosted the show with a series of dynamic guests, is now poised to welcome a new co-host. She had hosted the segment with Hoda Kotb, but now there will be a new change.

The changes announced on November 14th represent a substantial shift in the show's structure. Craig Melvin officially takes over Kotb's role in the early morning hours, while the fourth hour will evolve into "Today with Jenna & Friends", featuring a rotation of co-hosts. This approach allows for a more diverse range of voices and perspectives, offering viewers a dynamic viewing experience.

Michelle Collins, a frequent contributor, brings a refreshing perspective to "Today with Hoda & Jenna" with her up-to-date takes on entertainment news. This is a feature that will continue with "Today with Jenna & Friends," ensuring that viewers stay informed about pop culture.

In the midst of this transition, some are pondering the possibility of Savannah Guthrie stepping in to co-host the fourth hour with Bush Hager. The dynamic between Guthrie and Bush Hager has been a subject of much discussion, with many fans hoping to see them paired on the show. The future of the fourth hour, in light of this speculation, is yet to be determined.

Kotb's final broadcast with Bush Hager is scheduled for January 10th, marking the close of an era. With the changing of the guard on the horizon, the shows producers are hopeful that the transition will go smoothly.

The decision by Hoda Kotb to leave "Today" after so many years has been met with a combination of sadness and celebration. The anchor has dedicated her career to informing and entertaining viewers, and her impact on morning television is undeniable. As she embarks on the next chapter of her life, she leaves behind a legacy of warmth, professionalism, and a genuine connection with her audience.

The official announcement of Craig Melvin as Kotb's replacement in the 7 a.m. slot ensures that the program's core remains intact. The dynamic between Melvin and the other hosts is expected to be seamless, bringing the same mix of news, interviews, and entertainment that viewers have come to expect.

The transition period for "Today" is a time of both change and continuity. While Kotb's departure marks the end of an era, the show's commitment to delivering quality content and providing a welcoming presence remains firm. The format of "Today with Jenna & Friends" is an innovative approach, offering a new dynamic for viewers.

The show has a history of successful partnerships. Before Kotb's pairing with Bush Hager, the fourth hour was anchored by Kathie Lee Gifford. The evolution of the show highlights its ability to adapt to change while still maintaining its core values. Now the program's transition is underway, and the future of the fourth hour holds much speculation.

The success of "Today" hinges on its ability to connect with viewers. The show's focus on compelling interviews, heartwarming stories, and up-to-date news coverage has kept it at the forefront of morning television. The show has continued to attract viewers, as evidenced by the ratings with Craig Melvin.

Kotb's exit has been met with heartfelt sentiments from co-workers and fans alike. The camaraderie between the hosts, and their ability to engage with each other on a personal level, has always been a key factor in the show's appeal. It has been a hallmark of the show, and is expected to continue with the new line-up.

The upcoming changes promise to bring about a fresh approach to morning television. The decision by NBC to announce Kotb's replacement and the renaming of the fourth hour show that the network is dedicated to making a smooth transition. The new format, with Bush Hager at the helm, gives the program a fresh perspective, while keeping true to the established traditions of the show.

The departure of Hoda Kotb marks the end of a very successful period for "Today". Kotb's contributions to the show, and her rapport with co-hosts and viewers, are part of the reason "Today" has remained a dominant force in morning television. The show is sure to go on and adapt.

The transition period is allowing the show to explore new possibilities. The show has shown over the years that they are capable of navigating change, and that the program will continue to provide its viewers with the best possible experience. The show will continue to evolve and adapt.

Kotbs final broadcast with Bush Hager will happen on January 10th, setting the stage for a new era. The "Today" show is poised to continue as a leading force in the world of morning television. The changes happening now, with a focus on new talent, is going to drive the show forward.

The upcoming season of "Today" will be an interesting one. As the show continues to evolve, it will remain a beacon for viewers. The programs next chapter holds both change and continuity, and the future looks bright.