Kristen Welker Returns to NBC News: Date & Details

Craig Melvin will return to hosting NBC’s Today in April, the network confirmed on Friday.

Melvin’s return follows the departure of Hoda Kotb from the program in February 2025, after nine years as a co-anchor. Kotb’s exit concluded a period of significant change for the morning show, which previously saw the departure of Savannah Guthrie’s co-anchor, Matt Lauer, in 2017 and Meredith Vieira in 2011.

Prior to Kotb’s departure, Melvin had frequently filled in as a co-host alongside Guthrie. He has been with NBC News since 2011, initially joining as a correspondent. He as well anchors Dateline NBC and hosts MSNBC’s The Beat with Ari Melber.

The Today show has seen a succession of anchors throughout its history. Dave Garroway was the program’s original host, beginning in 1952. Subsequent anchors have included Hugh Downs, Frank McGee, Jim Hartz, Tom Brokaw, Jane Pauley, Bryant Gumbel, Deborah Norville, Katie Couric, and Meredith Vieira, according to NBC archival information.

Bill Hanrahan, Danny Dark, Howard Reig, Don Pardo, Bill Wendell, and Bill Wolff have all served as announcers for the program at various points, contributing to the show’s distinctive sound and style. Pardo, in particular, was known for his long tenure announcing Saturday Night Live in addition to his perform on Today.

NBC has not announced any further changes to the Today show’s on-air talent following Melvin’s confirmed return.