In a heartwarming new interview for Parade, Craig Melvin and Savannah Guthrie share their insights on their decades-long friendship,
their personal lives, and the challenges and joys of balancing their high-profile careers with parenthood.
The duo, who are known for their chemistry as co-anchors on the TODAY show, opened up about their journeys, memorable moments,
and the candid conversations that have helped them form an unshakeable bond over the years.
A Friendship That Goes Beyond the Screen
Melvin and Guthrie’s friendship began around 2010 when both were working in Washington, D.C.
Melvin, then a weekend anchor for the local NBC affiliate, recalls the first time he met Guthrie. “I immediately was like: That guy is good. He’s different. He’s an original,” said Guthrie. Their connection was instant, and it soon blossomed into a deep, long-lasting friendship that continues to this day.
The two share more than just a professional relationship—they have become like family, often spending time together outside of work. “We’ve got kids that have hung out together, and we’ve hung out together, so we don’t have to fake it,” Melvin says, noting that their natural rapport makes their on-screen chemistry feel effortless. “The audience can tell when the chemistry is manufactured, and we haven’t had to manufacture anything,” he adds. Guthrie agrees, calling Melvin her “sister” and expressing how excited she is to share this new chapter in their careers together.
Savannah Guthrie’s Big Break
Guthrie’s rise to co-anchor of the TODAY show was not without its challenges. In 2012, she was thrust into the role of replacing Ann Curry amidst much media controversy. Reflecting on the time, Guthrie admits she was terrified and unsure of her future with the show. “I was the last to know, and I was so afraid,” she says. “I was pretty sure I wouldn’t last.”
However, her dreams of becoming a lead anchor were still alive, and when the opportunity arose, she was overwhelmed with emotion. “It wasn’t because I didn’t dream of this job like everyone else does. It was because I was sure that it wouldn’t last,” she confesses. Despite her initial fears, Guthrie has proven herself to be an integral part of the TODAY show for over a decade, and she reflects on how grateful she is to have survived and thrived in the role.
Parenting, Puppies, and Life Beyond Work
For both Melvin and Guthrie, family has become a central focus in their lives, and their shared experiences as parents have given them even more to bond over. With children of similar ages, the two often compare notes on parenting and discuss the highs and lows of raising young kids. “We talk probably more about that stuff than we do about work,” Guthrie shares. They exchange pictures of their children and enjoy discussing everything from the milestones their kids are reaching to the challenges of juggling work and family life.
In addition to their children, both anchors recently added new furry members to their families. “He just got a puppy last year. We just got a puppy a month ago,” Guthrie says with a smile, while Melvin adds, “We talk about the joys and pratfalls of puppy ownership.” Melvin’s lighthearted comment about “pratfalls” underscores the sense of humor they share in navigating the ups and downs of life.
A Missed Taylor Swift Concert for Family Time
In a fun and relatable moment, Melvin reveals that he had to miss out on a highly anticipated Taylor Swift concert in favor of spending quality time with his family. In October, the Melvin and Guthrie families, along with Hoda Kotb and her daughters, gathered in Miami for a dinner and a Taylor Swift concert. However, Melvin’s 10-year-old son had other plans. “Under no circumstances am I going to a Taylor Swift concert,” Melvin recalls his son saying. As a result, Melvin skipped the concert, opting instead to spend time with his son at a laser tag venue. His candid explanation of choosing fatherhood over fame struck a chord with fans who admire his dedication to his family.
The exclusive interview with Craig Melvin and Savannah Guthrie offers a rare glimpse into their personal lives and the powerful friendship that has withstood the test of time. Whether it’s supporting each other through career changes, sharing parenting stories, or simply enjoying a good laugh over puppy ownership, the two anchors show just how important it is to maintain strong connections with those who truly matter. Their genuine camaraderie both on and off-screen continues to inspire viewers and reminds us all of the importance of balancing work and personal life while fostering meaningful relationships.
Follow us to see more useful information, as well as to give us more motivation to update more useful information for you.