Veteran NBC host and news anchor Craig Melvin has been tapped to replace Hoda Kotb as co-host of the 7 a_m_ to 9 a_m_ hours of “Today.”

I am beyond excited and grateful,” Melvin said, thanking “NBC and the folks here who deemed me worthy.” He begins as co-host in January.

Craig Melvin will become the new co-anchor of NBC’s Today, following the departure of Hoda Kotb in January. The announcement was made on this morning’s broadcast. Kotb’s final day on the show will be on Jan.