CRAIG Melvin was Savannah Guthrie’s “first choice” to replace Hoda Kotb as her Today co-anchor.
A source exclusively told The U.S. Sun that Craig’s major promotion was a move ultimately made by Savannah, 52.
“This was Savannah’s top pick for the job, she’s the one in charge over there, so what she says, goes,” the insider claimed.
The insider added that Savannah’s seat at the Today anchor desk has gotten more powerful with Hoda on her way out.
“Now with Hoda gone, Savannah has total control over the show.
“No one in the history of Today has been as powerful as Savannah now is. Not even Matt Lauer or Katie Couric,” the insider said.
Meanwhile, they noted that moving Craig into Hoda’s spot is also a major cost-cutting measure for NBC.
Craig is reportedly getting $5 million to do the three hours of Today, while Hoda was reportedly making around $20 million.
“Gone are days of multi-million deals. Plus, he must host the first three hours- he wanted to host two like Savannah, and NBC said no.
“It’s a bang for the buck move.”
BIG MOVES
Hoda told her Today audience in September that after almost two decades, she was leaving the morning show.
Craig will officially take over as cohost on January 13, with Hoda’s last day being January 10.
Al Roker terrifies Today co-hosts with Beetlejuice costume – and Hoda Kotb recoils at his ‘hideous teeth’
The 45-year-old anchor has been with NBC for 14 years.
Craig will now join the 7am hour of the show, alongside Savannah.
“I am beyond excited and grateful,” an emotional Craig said on Thursday.
“I had a lot of conversations yesterday with a lot of people who mean a lot to me, and I want to thank NBC and the folks here who deemed me worthy.