Craig Melvin Admits He Regrets Rushing to Replace Hoda Kotb on Today—”It Nearly Cost Me My Career!”

Craig Melvin opens up about his Today Show experience, revealing his deep regret over hastily stepping into Hoda Kotb’s role. Did he make a career-altering mistake?
Craig Melvin Reflects on His Today Show Transition
Craig Melvin recently admitted that stepping into Hoda Kotb’s spot on Today was both an honor and a challenge—one that he may have underestimated at first.
Hoda left the morning show in January, marking the end of her 18-year tenure. While she had been planning her departure since turning 60 last summer, her exit still shocked viewers.

Craig, who had been a news anchor and third-hour co-host, was suddenly thrust into a new role alongside Savannah Guthrie—an opportunity he once considered a dream come true.
“Being part of such a legendary program is something I don’t take lightly. It’s truly the honor of a lifetime,” Craig shared.
However, what started as a career milestone soon turned into a wake-up call.
Read More:
- Two birds with one stone Ellen DeGeneres not only made her wife happy but also successfully threw shade at the person who forced them both to “leave” the United States, all with a single action on her social media.
- Jimmy Fallon made his fans “hide their faces” with his “dishonest” behavior during the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
- Angelina Jolie has proven that she has found her “peaceful harbor” in Akala, subtly hinting that she plans to “retire” from her career and return to being a woman focused on family.
The Reality of Stepping Into Hoda’s Shoes
Craig confessed that while he knew Today was an iconic institution, he never fully grasped its reach and influence until he experienced it firsthand.
“You don’t realize the magnitude of this show until you live it,” he admitted.
He recalled being stopped by fans in random places like Ohio and Florida airports, who would bring up moments from his very first episode.

“That’s when it really hit me—millions of people are watching, every single morning,” Craig said.
Despite the prestige of his new role, Craig admitted he underestimated the pressure. The transition wasn’t just about filling Hoda Kotb’s seat—it was about earning the trust of a loyal audience.
Craig’s Vision for His Role on Today
While Craig acknowledges the weight of expectations, he’s determined to bring his own voice to the show. One area he’s especially passionate about? Fatherhood.
“Parenting is something I care deeply about, and I believe there’s space for more meaningful conversations around it,” he shared.

Despite the initial hurdles, Craig remains grateful for the opportunity.
“This role is another blessing in my life, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.”
Hoda Kotb’s Response to Craig’s New Role
Although Hoda Kotb’s departure left big shoes to fill, she has no doubt that Craig is the perfect person for the job.
“You have everything this role requires. You were made for this,” Hoda praised him.
Read More:
- Margot Robbie “nailed the transformation” into a “justice cop” role, declaring she has restored “fairness for the girls Leonardo DiCaprio turned his back on” with just one action.
- Apple Martin, daughter of Gwyneth Paltrow, embarrassed her “famous” mother with her “disrespectful” behavior at a party in Paris.
- Britney Spears celebrated her “single life” in a “one-of-a-kind” way on her private jet, leaving the crew “terrified.”
Did Craig Melvin Make the Right Choice?
While Craig doesn’t regret accepting the opportunity, he admits the pressure was greater than he expected.
Did his decision to step in too quickly nearly cost him his career, or was it simply a necessary growing pain?
Share your thoughts below!