Hoda Kotb sends Shout-Out to Today Show replacement Craig Melvin

Hoda Kotb is celebrating its new chapter after its finale Today show appearance.

The 60-year-old broadcaster took to social media on Monday, January 13, with the positive news that he is starting over. “And suddenly, you know…it’s time to start something new and trust in the magic of new beginnings,” read the quote, which she shared via her Instagram feed.

In the caption, Kotb added: “Here’s to everyone starting over – @craigmelvinnbc and @savannahguthrie ….. @jennabushhager and friends.. and me! Let’s do it!”

The scream came as Craig Melvin ready step in as Kotb’s replacement on the NBC morning show. Kotb announced in September 2024 that she would be leaving the series after nearly 30 years with the network. Melvin’s new role was confirmed two months later.

“Obviously I want to thank NBC and the people here who thought I was worthy,” Melvin, 45, said at the time, noting that he felt “overwhelmed and grateful” for the new opportunity. “I have enjoyed a lifetime of blessings and this is the latest in a long line of blessings.

Kotb assured his colleague that he was “made for the job,” adding, “You’re so good. You have all the things this job needs. You’re the one for that.”

After months of buildup, Kotb officially said goodbye to the Today parade on Friday, January 10, conclusion and weekly “Hoda-bration” in her honor. She became emotional as she praised her co-hosts including Savannah Guthrieand wished Melvin the best of luck on his new journey.

“Savannah, oh my god. You’re my person, you’re my person. You know who shows up for everyone? This girl. … He’s in peace, he’s still in peace, and I love you,” she gushed. “Craig, I’m so happy for you. You earned this, you own this, and come Monday at 7am, I’ll be dead asleep. But you will be fantastic. You bring it home. Craig, you will be so good. You and Savannah will be magicians.”

During Monday’s episode, Kotb sent Melvin a video message to celebrate his new role. She wrote him a letter that was read on air after Guthrie found it hidden in the studio. Melvin was overcome with emotion as his family supported him on the air.

Kotb previously explained that her departure from Today show was inspired by her daughters, Haley, 7, and Hope, 5. She further detailed her decision in a letter shared via Today.com last fall.

“I’ve been considering this decision for a long time – am I really ready?” she wrote. “But my 60th birthday party at the Plaza felt like a shift. Like a massive, joyful YES, you are! I could see it all so clearly: my broadcasting career was beyond meaningful, I was facing a new decade of my life, and my daughters and my mom now needed and deserved a bigger piece of my time pie. I’m going to miss you all terribly, but I’m ready and excited.”

At the time, Kotb added that she planned to remain “a part of the NBC family” and called her time at the network “the longest working relationship I’ve been fortunate enough to hold close to my heart.”

Melvin filled his shoes on the aa morning show rotating list of guest hosts joining Jenna Bush Hager on Today with Jenna and friendsKotb is ready to sit back and relax—even turn off her morning alarms.

“No alarm…whaaaaaaaattttt???” she teased through Instagram on Sunday, January 12, ahead of her first day off the air.