Craig Melvin Gets an Emotional Surprise from His Parents on His First Day as TODAY Co-Anchor

You’re never too old for a heartfelt pop-up from your parents — especially when it happens live on national television.

Craig Melvin, one of NBC’s most beloved journalists, received an unforgettable surprise when his parents appeared live on air to celebrate his first official day as co-anchor of the TODAY show, alongside Savannah Guthrie (TODAY).

Melvin, a familiar face to millions of viewers, has been part of NBC News for nearly 14 years, serving as a news anchor, correspondent, and co-host of Third Hour of TODAY. His promotion follows the departure of Hoda Kotb, who stepped down after 17 years with TODAY and 26 years with NBC News (USA Today).

For Melvin, the new role marked a major career milestone — but what made the moment even more special was an emotional on-air reunion with his family. As he was wrapping up his first segment, producers surprised him by bringing out his wife Lindsay Czarniak, their two children, and his parents, Betty Jo and Lawrence Melvin.

“When I left this morning, you were all in bed!” Melvin exclaimed, laughing through tears as his children walked toward him on set.

A Mother’s Pride and a Father’s Reflection

The emotional crescendo came when Melvin’s mother took the microphone, her voice filled with pride.

“I have butterflies in my stomach today,” Betty Jo said. “I always knew that he was going to do whatever it is he set his mind to, and I’ve always encouraged him — do what you can do, set high expectations. You’re not going to disappoint anybody if it’s not the top, but do your very best. And he has proven to me and everybody else that he has done his very best. He deserves this. We love you.” (People Magazine)

As Guthrie handed the mic to Melvin’s father, Lawrence Melvin, the room grew even more emotional. Lawrence, visibly touched, reminisced about his son’s early years growing up in Columbia, South Carolina, long before the NBC studios and national fame.

“He would come home from school, and I worked the third shift,” he recalled. “He would always say, ‘Dad, Dad, let me tell you something,’ and I’d say, ‘I think Dad needs to get some rest.’ But he just kept going and going. He always had something to say. So here he is.”

His mother added with a laugh, “We didn’t know if he was going to be a preacher, a politician, or a journalist — he’s been talking his whole life!”

A Career Built on Purpose and Perseverance

Melvin, clearly moved, dabbed his eyes as he absorbed the moment — a culmination of decades of hard work and family support. “Here’s the thing,” he said softly. “I’m not sitting on this couch with you if it weren’t for those two.”

The moment wasn’t just touching for viewers — it also reflected Melvin’s reputation for authenticity and humility. Over his career, he has covered major breaking stories including the 2016 presidential election, George Floyd’s murder, and the COVID-19 pandemic, always earning praise for his professionalism and warmth (The Washington Post).

Melvin’s brother, Ryan Melvin, also joined the family celebration, rounding out a joyful first day.

Hoda Kotb’s Heartfelt Message

In addition to the family surprise, former co-anchor Hoda Kotb appeared via pre-recorded video with a message that left the entire studio smiling.

“Craig-or! It’s your first day. How does it feel?” she said, using her affectionate nickname for him. “First of all, I’m so proud of you — you’re going to be fantastic. Go get ’em, Craig! You’ve got this.” (TODAY)

The studio audience erupted in applause, and Guthrie could be seen wiping away tears as she hugged her new co-anchor.

An Inspiring Full-Circle Moment

For longtime viewers of TODAY, the touching scene felt like a full-circle moment. Melvin often speaks openly about his roots, his journey from local news in South Carolina to network television, and the influence of his parents’ work ethic and faith. In previous interviews, he has said, “My parents were my first teachers in resilience. Everything I’ve achieved is because of the values they gave me” (NBC News).

Now, as Melvin steps into one of the most visible morning show roles in America, his story serves as a reminder of the power of perseverance — and the grounding influence of family.

The cameras may have been rolling, but what viewers witnessed that morning was far more than a TV moment. It was a real-time celebration of love, legacy, and the pursuit of purpose — all captured live on air.

Because of you, Craig — and because of them — we can.