The 45-year-old, who was also joined by his parents and brother, appeared deeply touched as they walked into the studio.
Craig Melvin was surprised when his wife, Lindsay Czarniak, and their children, Delano and Sybil, joined him on set during his first day as a co-anchor for “Today,” having replaced Hoda Kotb.
A fan comments on Craig Melvin’s gorgeous family, who surprised him on his first day as a co-anchor for “Today,” from a post dated January 13, 2025 | Source: Instagram/todayshow
Craig wiped away tears when his family surprised him, amazed to see them on set after leaving home thinking they were still in bed. Lindsay revealed they had faked being asleep to make the moment memorable.
Lindsay added that she was proud of her husband for daring to dream and working hard to achieve his goals. She also shared that she’s most proud of his kindness and authenticity.
Sybil, Lindsay Czarniak, Craig Melvin, and Delano, from a post dated January 13, 2025 | Source: Instagram/lindsaycz
Betty Jo, Craig’s mom, moved him to tears as she praised him for always giving his best and said he truly deserved this moment. She told him, “I love you,” to which he responded, “Thank you, Ma.”
Ryan Melvin, Lawrence, Delano, Craig Melvin, Lindsay Czarniak, Sybil, and Betty Jo, from a post dated January 13, 2025 | Source: Instagram/lindsaycz
Craig Melvin’s dad, Lawrence, jokingly recalled how he would come home from school, find him at work, and immediately start talking. He had endless stories, always eager to share the latest adventures from his day, which made him the perfect candidate to grow up and become a show host. “We didn’t know if he was going to be a preacher, a politician, or a journalist,” Betty Jo joked.
Lawrence and Craig Melvin, from a post dated January 13, 2025 | Source: Instagram/lindsaycz
Craig’s kids also had the sweetest things to say about their dad. His son, Delano, shared, “He’s a great dad and he deserves to be here today,” while his daughter, Sybil, read aloud a list of things people might not know about him, including “My dad loves to play with me. He loves tickle fights and he watches TV shows with me.”
Fans couldn’t get enough of Craig’s heartwarming family moment and took to social media to share their excitement. One fan gushed, “Great show today 🤩 was so nice to see Craig and his family there. His son looks just like him. Such a sweet family looking forward to seeing Craig cohost every day.🎉.”
Sybil, Lindsay Czarniak, Craig Melvin, and Delano, from a post dated January 13, 2025 | Source: Instagram/lindsaycz
Another chimed in, “Craig’s son us [sic] a mini Craig.” Someone else commended him directly, “@craigmelvinnbc Your son is your mini-me! 👍🏽 congratulations on everything!!!” Many were struck by the striking resemblance, with one Instagrammer commenting, “His son is his twin,” and another adding, “Congrats to Craig! His son is his mini me [sic]. 😍.”
Sybil, Lindsay Czarniak, Craig Melvin, and Delano, from a post dated January 13, 2025 | Source: Instagram/lindsaycz
A fan who loved the sweet family dynamic, wrote, “So awesome 🤩 👏🏼 little girl looks like daddy. What a beautiful family. Best wishes Melvin and congratulations 🎉🍾🎈 you’ve earned this. Much love. ❤️.”
Another fan praised the family genes, “They said copy & paste with those genes! Beautiful family and wonderful celebration 🥰 congrats CM!” One viewer admired the adorable kids, sharing, “The most precious little kids! She is her mom’s twin and baby boy is Craig’s twin!! lol… what a beautiful family ❤️.”
Finally, another fan couldn’t help but marvel at the family resemblance, “Wow!! These kiddos are def minis of their parents!! Very cute family😍 [sic].”
Craig and his family share a strong, loving bond. They celebrated Christmas in 2024 by sharing a heartwarming picture of themselves in matching pajamas, lying on the floor, and looking up at the camera. Craig wrote, “Merry Christmas from the Melvins. Hope yours is a day filled with love, fun, and memories. A special prayer today for those who are lonely or grieving this holiday season.”
Now, the broadcast journalist, who has been with NBC News for almost 14 years, will be co-anchoring “Today,” for the 7 and 8 a.m. slots, alongside Savannah Guthrie. He is replacing Hoda, who left him a pre-recorded message, which was also played on his first day.
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Hoda said, “Craig-or! It’s your first day. How does it feel? First of all, I’m so proud of you, and I wanted to let you know just how proud of you I am, because, first of all, you’re going to be fantastic. Go get ’em, Craig. You’ve got this!” She also left Craig a letter, which she mentioned she would hide in a secret spot for him to open on his first day as co-anchor. Hoda disclosed the location to Savannah.
The letter was an uplifting message, filled with encouragement and excitement for Craig’s new chapter as co-anchor. It conveyed a sense of support and love as Hoda Kotb shared with him the endless possibilities and great memories ahead.
The letter highlighted the strength of Craig’s new team, with Savannah, Al Roker, and Carson Daly by his side. It added, “Your fans are so eager, they’re watching the clock. The time has arrived to rise like the sun.” It concluded with a joyful note, cheering him on for a successful run in this new role.
