Craig Melvin has officially been declared the “Sexiest Morning Show Host” in PEOPLE magazine’s Reader’s Choice poll, capturing the accolade as the presenter considered “Hotter Than Your Cup of Coffee in the Morning.” The announcement was made during a lively segment on the Today show, where his co-hosts celebrated the win with great fanfare on 22 October 2023.
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The ceremony was lively, with Carson Daly leading the charge by announcing Melvin’s win. “We are happy to announce, ladies and gentlemen, our friend Craig here is officially hotter than a cup of coffee in the morning,” Daly exclaimed before introducing the ceremonial crown for Melvin. Despite initial reluctance from Melvin regarding the crowning moment, co-anchor Savannah Guthrie reassured him, stating, “Oh, there’s a crown. Long may you reign.”
In addition to the crown, the show presented Melvin with a special beach towel from PEOPLE’s exclusive Sexiest Man Alive collection, a light-hearted nod to the presenter’s on-screen charisma. Daly humorously remarked on Melvin’s perspiration levels, saying, “They know how much you sweat, so they gave you a towel.” Guthrie chimed in, jokingly associating Melvin’s warm persona with his sultry title.
Clearly taken aback by the playful teasing, Melvin reluctantly accepted the praise but jokingly attributed his victory to the voting efforts of his family, particularly his wife, Lindsay Czarniak, and his mother, Betty Jo. “Thanks to my mom and my wife who voted at least 100, 200 times, I’m sure,” Melvin quipped, showing his trademark modesty amid the banter.
The merriment continued as fellow Today show host Dylan Dreyer added her jest to the moment, saying she felt overwhelmed standing in close proximity to someone deemed so “hot.” Guthrie continued the hilarity by asserting that Melvin’s attractiveness was just what the audience needed in current times.
Then came a surprise phone call from his wife, Czarniak, who expressed her immense pride in Melvin’s new title. “I’m just so proud of you! This is amazing!” she declared, while Al Roker noted that she now holds “bragging rights” in their household. Czarniak kept the humorous tone by suggesting that while Melvin should not let the accolade change him, everything he does could be approached with a touch more glamour, including “sexy cooking” and their anticipated family activities, such as pumpkin picking.
During the call, Czarniak presented a spatula adorned with press-on letters that spelled out “SEXY,” much to Melvin’s amusement. She also introduced the family dog, Miles, jokingly commenting on how excited he was about Melvin’s new title, to which Melvin responded with laughter, saying, “He couldn’t be more indifferent!”
As the segment drew to a close, Czarniak further extolled her husband’s virtues, saying, “I am really proud of you because you’re sexy at heart as well.” This touching sentiment highlighted the deep bond between the couple, who have been married for 15 years and have two children together.
The playful exchange not only entertained viewers but also showcased the close-knit camaraderie amongst the Today show team. Melvin’s win serves as a reminder that awards can often come with light-hearted fun, especially when shared among friends and family in the public eye.
In the end, Melvin’s recognition as PEOPLE’s Sexiest Morning Show Host seems less about physical appearance and more about the endearing personality and charisma he brings to the screen. With the backdrop of laughter, affection, and camaraderie, his co-hosts ensured that the moment would be a memorable one for both Melvin and his audience.