Craig Melvin

Craig Melvin is an American television host, news anchor, and journalist for NBC News and MSNBC. He is widely recognized as the co-host of the third hour of the network's flagship morning program, Today, alongside Al Roker and Dylan Dreyer. Melvin also serves as a primary anchor for MSNBC Live and frequently contributes to major political coverage and breaking news events across the NBCUniversal portfolio.

Early life and education

Craig Melvin was born and raised in Columbia, South Carolina, where he attended Spring Valley High School. He developed an early interest in journalism and communications, which he pursued at Wofford College in Spartanburg, South Carolina. At Wofford, he majored in government and was an active member of the student body, serving as president of the student government association. His collegiate experiences included internships that solidified his career path, leading him to graduate with a Bachelor of Arts degree.

Career

Melvin began his broadcasting career in 2003 as a reporter and weekend anchor at WCTI-TV in New Bern, North Carolina. He then moved to WIS-TV in his hometown of Columbia, South Carolina, before joining WRC-TV, the NBC owned-and-operated station in Washington, D.C., in 2008. At WRC-TV, he served as a morning anchor and reporter, covering significant stories including national politics from the United States Capitol. In 2011, Melvin transitioned to the national stage, joining MSNBC as a correspondent. He quickly ascended to anchor duties for MSNBC Live and became a frequent fill-in host on programs like The Daily Rundown and Way Too Early. His role expanded in 2014 when he was named a national correspondent for NBC News, contributing to NBC Nightly News, Today, and ''Dateline NBC''. In 2018, he was named co-host of the third hour of Today, a position he has held since, while continuing his anchoring duties on MSNBC. He has moderated political forums and provided coverage for major events like presidential elections, the State of the Union address, and the Olympic Games.

Personal life

Melvin married fellow sportscaster and journalist Lindsay Czarniak, a former anchor for ESPN and Fox Sports, in 2011. The couple has two children and resides in New York City. He is the brother of Lawrence Melvin, who was featured in his impactful Today series on addiction and recovery. An advocate for health and wellness, Melvin has been open about his family's experiences with colorectal cancer, raising awareness for early screening. He is also involved with various charitable organizations, including those focused on education and cancer research.

Awards and recognition

Throughout his career, Melvin has received several accolades for his journalism and community impact. He has been honored with multiple Regional Emmy Awards for his anchoring and reporting work in the Washington, D.C. market. His in-depth series on addiction for Today earned widespread acclaim and a Gracie Award. In 2021, he received the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) Award for his sustained excellence in television journalism. His alma mater, Wofford College, also presented him with a Distinguished Alumni Award for his professional achievements and service.

Filmography and works

Melvin's television work is primarily within news and talk programming. His regular appearances include Today (Third Hour co-host, 2018–present), MSNBC Live (anchor, 2011–present), and contributions as a correspondent for NBC Nightly News and ''Dateline NBC''. He has served as a host or moderator for specials such as NBC News election town halls and the network's coverage of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. In 2022, he authored a children's book focused on family and resilience, further expanding his work beyond broadcast journalism. Category:American television journalists Category:American news anchors Category:MSNBC people Category:NBC News journalists Category:1979 births Category:Living people Category:People from Columbia, South Carolina Category:Wofford College alumni