NEW YORK (AP) – Veteran NBC host and news anchor Craig Melvin has been contacted replaces Hoda Kotb as co-host of the “Today” program from 7:00 to 9:00.

Melvin is a familiar face to “Today” viewers. He currently hosts the third hour of the show and is the news anchor for the first two hours. He will continue to host the third hour alongside Al Roker, Dylan Dreyer and Sheinelle Jones.

“She was an integral and beloved part of our family,” Today senior vice president Libby Leist. said in a statement. “From covering breaking news in the industry, to presidential interviews, to multiple Olympics and Super Bowls, Craig has shown he has the talent and range to cover everything we do here at ‘Today.’ And it does so without ever losing its Southern charm.”

Kotb’s last official day at the show will be Jan. 10. She announced in September that she was leaving “Today,” which generally ranks third in the morning ratings on ABC’s “Good Morning America.” NBC News did not disclose the choice for Kotb’s other role, co-anchoring the 10 a.m. hour, which he does with Jenna Bush Hager.

“I’ve enjoyed a lifetime of blessings and this is the latest,” Melvin said Thursday on the show. Of Kotb and Guthrie, he said, “You guys are the sisters I didn’t think I needed.” And he said of Kotb – “you saved the show”, which, although hyperbolic, was a reference to her hasty takeover after The Matt Lauer scandal.