Craig Melvin’s Homecoming to Columbia on NBC’s ‘Today’ Show
South Carolina native Craig Melvin will feature the Midlands in a segment airing Thursday on NBC’s “Today” show. He previewed the piece Wednesday on local station WIS’s Facebook page.
“Welcome to my hometown, Columbia, S.C. Join me for a little trip down memory lane. I’m going to bring you back here to my childhood with my kid brother, introduce you to some of my favorite people and places that really sort of shaped me, molded me. And of course, there will be food.”
In the video, Melvin stands at the newly renovated Finlay Park downtown while sharing memories. The segment includes scenes of local dining, a visit to a barber shop, and an interview with Columbia Mayor Daniel Rickenmann, who was re-elected in Tuesday’s local election.
Melvin’s Career and Connection to Columbia
Melvin’s visit to Columbia comes nearly a year after he became co-host of NBC’s “Today,” succeeding Hoda Kotb. Before this national role, he spent 13 years with NBC News.
Many locals remember him for his early career at WIS, Columbia’s NBC affiliate. Melvin started there while still a student at Columbia High School and later became the station’s nightly news anchor.
Highlighting Roots on National Media
Since rising to national prominence, Melvin has frequently showcased his South Carolina roots. This week, viewers will get a fresh look at how he reflects on his hometown of Columbia.
Author’s summary: Craig Melvin revisits his hometown of Columbia, S.C., on NBC’s “Today,” sharing personal memories, local culture, and familiar faces that shaped his life.