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.” Melvin is a familiar face to “Today” show viewers. He currently hosts the show’s third hour and is the news anchor during the first two hours.

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.

Kotb's last day will be Jan. 10. She announced in September she was leaving the program after 17 years to spend more time with her children.