'TODAY' host Craig Melvin revisits Columbia for hometown segment. When will episode air?

'TODAY' host Craig Melvin revisits Columbia for hometown segment

Craig Melvin, co-anchor of the “TODAY” show and graduate of Wofford College, recently returned to his hometown of Columbia to film a special segment. The episode will air this week on NBC and highlight Melvin’s experiences across the Midlands.

About a year ago, the Emmy Award–winning journalist succeeded Hoda Kotb’s position on “TODAY.” In an interview with the Post & Courier Free Times, he explained that his hosting duties go far beyond presenting.

“You don't just host the show, you're not just one of the pieces of the show,” he said. “You're kind of the mayor of this small town, and the name of the town is 'TODAY.'”

Melvin also reflected on his connection to Columbia and how distance has deepened his appreciation for home.

“I love it more now that I have moved away,” he said. “I’ve traveled the world, I've seen a lot, but man, Columbia’s it.”

Melvin’s roots and career beginnings

Born and raised in Columbia, Melvin graduated from Columbia High School. While still a student, he began working at WIS-TV, where he first discovered what journalism meant to him.

“It is here that he learned what it means to be a journalist. It is here that he spent nearly 36 hours on the streets, sleeping in Finlay Park, for a story highlighting people experiencing homelessness,” reported the Post & Courier Free Times.

He later attended Wofford College in Spartanburg, earning a degree in government in 2001.

Author’s Summary

Craig Melvin returns to Columbia for an NBC “TODAY” feature, reflecting on his roots, career beginnings at WIS-TV, and enduring love for his hometown.

Greenville Online — 2025-11-06