Craig Melvin’s Homecoming to Columbia Airs on NBC’s “Today”
South Carolina native Craig Melvin returned to the Midlands to film a heartfelt segment for Thursday’s edition of NBC’s “Today” show. The piece celebrates his hometown, Columbia, and the people and places that helped shape him.
Preview and Highlights
Melvin offered a preview on Wednesday, shared via local station WIS’s Facebook page. In the video, filmed at the newly renovated Finlay Park downtown, he warmly greets viewers.
“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.”
Scenes from the Segment
The video shows Melvin visiting local restaurants, a barber shop, and chatting with Columbia Mayor Daniel Rickenmann, who recently secured re-election. The hometown visit blends nostalgia with celebration of the community’s vibrancy.
Melvin’s Roots and Career
Nearly a year after becoming co-host of NBC’s “Today” show, succeeding Hoda Kotb, Melvin revisits the city where his journalism journey began. He joined WIS-TV while attending Columbia High School and eventually became its nightly news anchor before moving to the national stage.
Connection to South Carolina
Even after 13 years with NBC News, Melvin continues to showcase his South Carolina roots. His consistent tributes to Columbia keep his bond with the community strong and enduring.
Author’s summary: Craig Melvin’s return to Columbia honors his hometown roots as he revisits the places and people that defined his early life and career.