Craig Melvin is settling into his new role as co-host of the popular morning show, and while he has been warmly welcomed, his fourth day on the job saw the absence of a familiar face.
Savannah Guthrie, one of his co-anchors, was missing from the broadcast, and Melvin wasted no time addressing her absence.
As he kicked off the morning show on January 16, Melvin greeted viewers with enthusiasm but also provided an update on Guthrie’s whereabouts.
“Welcome to Today, so glad you’re with us on this busy Thursday morning,” the 45-year-old said. “Laura Jarrett is in, Savannah’s a little under the weather.”
While Guthrie’s absence was understandable, Melvin couldn’t resist injecting a little humor into the situation.
Jokingly, he added, “I know what you’re thinking—that after three days of Craig, she decided to bail.”
Jarrett, who was filling in for Guthrie, laughed and responded, “I wasn’t going to say it… But it’s nice to be with you.”
Guthrie’s sick day came on the heels of another Today show co-anchor stepping away for personal reasons. Just a day prior, Sheinelle Jones announced that she was taking some time off due to a family health matter. In a heartfelt Instagram message shared on January 15, Jones expressed her gratitude for the support she had received. “Hi everybody…I sincerely appreciate all of you who have reached out while I’ve been absent from the show,” she wrote. “I want to share with you that I’m taking time to deal with a family health matter. It’s not lost on [me] how lucky I am to have not only the support of my Today Show family, but to also have all of you. Your kindness means so much to me. I’ll see you soon.”
Despite the unexpected absences, Melvin has been making a strong impression in his newly expanded role. His journey as a co-host officially began on January 13, and he was met with warmth and encouragement from his colleagues. Guthrie, who was present for his first day, made sure to acknowledge the significance of the moment. “You’ve sat there so many times, but this morning is special,” she said. “Let’s go, this is going to be a beautiful ride.”
Perhaps the most touching moment of Melvin’s first week came from none other than Hoda Kotb, whom he replaced as co-host. Kotb bid farewell to Today on January 10 after nearly 17 years, but she made sure to leave a special message for Melvin as he stepped into his new role. In a heartfelt pre-recorded letter, the beloved journalist shared words of encouragement. “It’s your first day. How does it feel?” Kotb’s message began. “First of all, I’m so proud of you, and I wanted to let you know just how proud of you I am, because, first of all, you’re going to be fantastic.”
Melvin, a seasoned journalist, has been a key member of the Today show team for years, frequently filling in as co-host and covering major stories. His promotion to a permanent role marks a new chapter for the morning program, and his colleagues have made it clear that they are excited to have him on board in this capacity.
With Guthrie expected to return soon and Jones focusing on her family, Melvin continues to hold down the fort with the help of his co-hosts and guest anchors. The changes at Today mark a period of transition, but viewers can rest assured that the show remains in capable hands.
As Melvin settles into his new role, fans of the morning show can look forward to seeing him bring his signature warmth, professionalism, and charm to their screens each morning. Whether delivering breaking news, sharing heartfelt moments, or exchanging lighthearted banter with his co-hosts, Melvin is proving to be a strong addition to the team. And with the continued support of his colleagues and audience, his tenure as co-host is shaping up to be a successful one.
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