Craig Melvin Thought Hoda Kotb Was Being ‘Forced Out’ of $8M-a-Year ‘Today’ Gig: ‘No One Leaves These Jobs on Their Own’
Craig Melvin’s Unexpected Reaction to Hoda Kotb’s ‘Today’ Show Exit
Craig Melvin was taken aback when Hoda Kotb announced she was leaving the iconic NBC “Today” show, where she had been a beloved anchor for nearly three decades. The news came as a shock to Melvin, who shares a close working relationship with Kotb, with their dressing rooms located just two doors apart. In an exclusive interview, Melvin recounted how Kotb’s sudden visit to his dressing room left him questioning whether she was leaving of her own accord or being pushed out.
“My dressing room is two over from hers, and she knocks on my door one morning, which was unusual. And she’s like, ‘You have a moment?’” Melvin recalled. “She came in, and she said, ‘I just wanted to tell you something. I’m leaving.’” His immediate reaction was concern for her wellbeing. “I asked, ‘Are you sick? Is everything OK?’ because no one leaves these jobs on their own,” he explained.
Kotb reassured him that her decision was voluntary, emphasizing that she wanted to step away while still at the top of her career. Despite her assurances, Melvin remained stunned. “I was legit stunned, so much so that after she left, I went back to her dressing room and asked, ‘Are you sure you’re OK?’ It takes a certain kind of courage to leave anything when you’re at the height of your game,” he said.
The Real Reasons Behind Hoda Kotb’s Departure
Hoda Kotb’s exit from the “Today” show was officially announced in September 2024, with her final day airing on January 10, 2025. The news sparked widespread speculation, especially considering her lucrative contract reportedly valued between $7 million and $8 million annually. Early reports suggested that NBC had proposed a pay cut, which may have influenced her decision to leave.
However, Kotb clarified that her choice was deeply personal. Approaching her 60th birthday, she wanted to prioritize spending more quality time with her two young daughters, Haley, 8, and Hope, 5. Balancing a demanding television career with motherhood had become increasingly challenging, and Kotb felt it was the right moment to step back.
This decision reflects a broader trend among high-profile media personalities who are reevaluating their work-life balance and seeking to focus on family and personal well-being. Kotb’s graceful exit underscores her desire to leave the show on her own terms, maintaining her legacy as a cherished figure on NBC.
Craig Melvin Steps Up as New Co-Anchor of ‘Today’ Show
Following Kotb’s departure, Craig Melvin was named as her successor to co-anchor alongside Savannah Guthrie. Melvin, who has been a familiar face on NBC, expressed both excitement and humility about taking on this prestigious role. “Craig, you were made for this job. You were literally made for this job. You are that kind of good,” Kotb praised during a November 2024 episode, highlighting his suitability for the position.
Melvin reciprocated the admiration, acknowledging the significance of inheriting Kotb’s role. “It means a lot to inherit this from you. You’ve been the heart of this place for a long time. You helped save this show,” he said. The transition symbolizes a passing of the torch within NBC’s morning lineup, with Melvin bringing his own style and energy to the program.
The new co-anchor role is a milestone in Melvin’s career, one he described as one of the most exciting moments outside of his personal life milestones like marriage and parenthood. Melvin shares two children, Delano, 10, and Sybil, 8, with his wife Lindsay Czarniak, and he looks forward to balancing his new professional responsibilities with family life.
A Heartfelt Send-Off: Hoda Kotb’s Poem to Craig Melvin
On Melvin’s first day as co-anchor, Kotb surprised him with a touching poem that she read on-air, symbolizing her support and encouragement for his new journey. The poem celebrated the opportunities ahead and the strong team Melvin would be joining, including Savannah Guthrie, Al Roker, and Carson Daly.
“Craig! I’m moving forward, so reach back your hand. Grab the baton, your world will expand. The adventures are endless … the people so dear. Great memories await, year after year,” Kotb wrote. Her words conveyed warmth and optimism, reinforcing the camaraderie and respect between the two journalists.
This gesture not only marked a poignant farewell but also highlighted the positive culture within the “Today” show team, ensuring viewers that the program remains in capable hands.
Conclusion
Craig Melvin’s candid reflections on Hoda Kotb’s departure from the “Today” show reveal the complexity behind such a high-profile exit. Far from being forced out, Kotb’s decision was a courageous and personal choice to focus on family and life beyond television. As Melvin steps into her role, the “Today” show embarks on a new chapter filled with promise and continuity.
If you want to stay updated on the latest in television news and exclusive interviews with your favorite anchors, be sure to subscribe to our newsletter and follow our coverage for more inside stories like this!
