Hoda Kotb has ‘no regrets’ about her decision to leave ‘today’ after her replacement was announced

Hoda Kotb beamed when this was announced Craig Melvin would replace her on Today amid her departure from the program.

“She couldn’t be happier about it,” an insider says exclusively Closer of the big announcement, which was made during the show on Thursday, November 14. “She had no say in the decision, but she thinks Craig was a good choice.”

Hoda, 60, first announced her plans to leave on September 26 Today in early 2025 to spend more time with her two daughters, Haley and Hope.

“It’s bittersweet because she’s sad that this chapter in her life is coming to an end,” the source added. “She doesn’t regret her decision to leave, she is still very excited to move on, but Craig’s announcement has only made it more real.”

Craig, 45, expressed his gratitude to NBC for creating the decision to promote him to be official Savannah Guthrie‘s coach in the early morning hours of the show.

“I’m beyond excited and grateful,” the South Carolina native said on the show. “I want to thank NBC and the people here who found me worthy. And I have to start by thanking the man above, thank you my Lord above and His son, Jesus. I have enjoyed a life of blessings, and this is the Last in a long line of blessings, I spoke with Mom and Dad yesterday and I’m thankful that they are still young enough to see this and enjoy the fruits of their labor.

“It means a lot to inherit this from you,” says the broadcaster, who shares children Delano and Sybil with his wife Lindsay Czarniaktold Hoda about the opportunity. “You helped save the show and to be able to sit next to someone who I knew for years was smart, and all of a sudden you start working with her and you’re like, ‘Wait a minute, she’s funny too!'”

Craig said Savannah, 52, and Hoda are like “sisters I never knew I needed.”

Following the big announcement, Lindsay, 47, shared a tribute to her husband on Instagram.

“The opportunity to watch the person you love make their dream come true is such a gift,” she wrote alongside several photos with Craig. “I will never forget this day and the excitement of the crowd to share your good news.”

Fans were thrilled to hear that Craig, one of NBC’s most beloved anchors, will be sliding into Hoda’s chair at the news desk on January 13.

“Congratulations to Craig!!! So happy for you and looking forward to many more years of my morning coffee with you!!!” one person wrote in a comment on Today’s official Instagram account.

“Best decision ever!! Congratulations and we at SC are so proud of you!!! Blessings,” another person wrote.

“We love him. You’re the real deal. Genuine and friendly. How refreshing! @todayshow watched since 1954…and the days of Dave Garroway! I’m old!!!!” said another person.

In a behind-the-scenes video posted to Today’s official Instagram account, fans could hear Craig’s name chanted in the Today Square. He appeared to be wiping a tear from his eye in the clip. Savannah and Hoda comforted him during the emotional moment, proving how strong the bond between the Today family is!