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 co-anchor of NBC’s “Today” show beginning early next year, following the departure of Hoda Kotb. He will join Savannah Guthrie on Monday, January 13. Kotb’s final day on the morning show will be Friday,