Fans of Today were surprised to see a change at the anchor desk on February 11, 2025, 

as Craig Melvin was noticeably missing from his usual spot alongside Savannah Guthrie. 

In his place, NBC News correspondent Peter Alexander stepped in as co-anchor for the morning broadcast.

Savannah wasted no time addressing Craig’s absence, revealing that he was on assignment in Milan for an exciting reason.

Where Is Craig Melvin?

As the show kicked off, Savannah greeted viewers alongside Peter and quickly explained Craig’s temporary absence.

“Nice to have you with us, Peter. Craig is on assignment in Milan,” she shared. “Tomorrow on Today, he’s going to give us a first look at the 2026 Winter Olympics. The countdown is already underway, so he’s going to show us around the beautiful host city.”

Craig had previously teased his upcoming trip to Italy, joking with his colleagues that he would be “taking one for the team” by traveling overseas for the assignment. His report from Milan is expected to give Today viewers an exclusive preview of the upcoming Winter Games, set to be held in the Italian cities of Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo.

This latest assignment is just another example of how Craig has stepped up in his new role on the show. The South Carolina native officially took over co-anchor duties from Hoda Kotb in January 2025 after her departure from Today.

Peter Alexander Steps In as Guest Co-Anchor

With Craig temporarily away, Peter Alexander took on co-hosting duties alongside Savannah. Before appearing on the show, Peter shared a nostalgic moment on social media, reflecting on how far he’s come in his journalism career.

“Just dug up this classic Medill Evening News clip from @northwesternu @medillschool. Thinking it’s 1998. Long way from @nbcnews. What a journey! Fill-in anchoring @todayshow alongside @savannahguthrie tomorrow. Hope you’ll watch,” Peter wrote on Instagram on February 10, 2025.

Fans were thrilled to see Peter take on the role, with many leaving supportive comments on his post.

“I think you are great. One of the few reporters who ask the hard questions and keep at it,” one viewer wrote.

Another commented, “You were born to anchor!”

While he is best known as a familiar face on Weekend Today, Peter’s career at NBC spans two decades, making him a natural fit to fill in for Craig.

Who Is Peter Alexander?

For those who regularly tune into Today, Peter Alexander is a well-known name. He has been a co-host on Weekend Today since 2018, where he shares anchoring duties with Laura Jarrett.

Peter’s journey with NBC began in 2004, and over the years, he has covered major global events and breaking news. In 2012, he was named an NBC News White House correspondent, a role that further solidified his reputation as a trusted journalist.

Upon officially joining Weekend Today as an anchor, Peter expressed his gratitude for the opportunity.

“I’ve been watching this show since I was a kid, and I am so honored,” he said at the time. “I’ve learned so much from so many people in this system.”

His commitment to journalism was further highlighted in August 2024 when he celebrated 20 years with NBC. Reflecting on his career, he shared an important takeaway.

“What I learned the most is what it means to be a storyteller. I really feel like we have a higher responsibility doing this for a living,” he said. “Being journalists, you have the trust of the audience, the trust of the people whose stories you’re telling. That’s something that I take so seriously.”

When Will Craig Melvin Return to Today?

While Craig is currently overseas for his Olympic assignment, fans won’t have to wait long to see him back at the Today desk. His special report from Milan is set to air on February 12, 2025, giving viewers an early look at the 2026 Winter Games preparations.

In the meantime, Peter’s presence on the show has been well received, with many viewers appreciating the dynamic between him and Savannah.

With Craig’s return just around the corner, Today fans can look forward to his firsthand insights from Milan while enjoying Peter’s guest appearance in the co-anchor seat.

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