By Daily Mail (U.S.) | Created at 2025-01-10 14:24:16 | Updated at 2025-01-10 17:33:13
3 hours ago
Hoda Kotb has confessed that she won't be watching her Today show replacement Craig Melvin on his first day on Monday.
The legendary anchor, 60, is currently presenting her last episode as she prepares to leave the program after nearly three decades at the network.
While Craig, 45, is preparing to officially take Hoda's place as co-anchor alongside Savannah Guthrie on January 13, Hoda revealed why she won't be tuning in.
Addressing Craig directly during Friday's show, she said: 'Craig, I mean, I'm so happy for you. You have earned this. You own this.'
She then cheekily added: 'And come Monday at 7:00AM, I am going to be dead asleep.'
Hoda's honest quip had the entire studio in a fit of laughter.
Hoda Kotb has confessed that she won't be watching her Today show replacement Craig Melvin on his first day on Monday
The anchor cheekily admitted that instead, she'll be 'dead asleep
'You're going to be fantastic,' she swiftly added. 'You're gonna bring it home!'
Bringing Craig and Savannah in for a group hug, Hoda went on to say: 'Craig, you are going to be so good. You and Savannah are going to be magic.'
In a pre-recorded video tribute, Craig heaped praise on his departing colleague for being so supportive over his new role.
'The kindness and generosity that she displayed so quickly, "you got this, you will be good at this", I will never forget.'
In November, it was confirmed that Craig, who has been with NBC News for nearly 14 years, would be taking over from Hoda.
Addressing his new role, the broadcaster exclaimed at the time: 'I am beyond excited and grateful. This is the latest in a long line of blessings.'
And Craig's signing has proven to be hugely popular amongst his colleagues.
Giving insight into how the news went down at the studios, Savannah said live on air: 'The larger staff found out this morning, and people broke into applause.
Craig will be taking over from Hoda on Monday, January 13
Hoda had her colleagues both crying and laughing during a sweet tribute segment
'This is one of the most popular decisions NBC News has ever made. Congratulations.'
Of course, the Today show stars have thrown their support around Craig and are excited to see him step into his new role.
'Right now, we are all so close, so it's like seeing my brother get this promotion, and you can't help but be happy for him,' Dylan Dreyer told DailyMail.com, stressing that 'it's not a phony happy.'
She added: 'I know him as a person, and it just makes so much sense.
'I've never seen anything that makes more sense.'
