A day after a shocking intruder incident at the Today show’s New York City studio, Craig Melvin returned to the anchor desk.
Co-hosting the July 17 broadcast alongside Laura Jarrett, Melvin noted that co-anchor Savannah Guthrie was taking an early weekend. She’ll return on Monday. The day prior, Guthrie had announced an upcoming “few-week” hiatus to film her new Wordle project.
On Thursday, July 16, 41-year-old Andrew Truelove bypassed security and broke into the Today show studio at Rockefeller Plaza around 9 a.m. Truelove allegedly shouted racial slurs at Craig Melvin and asked for Al Roker before being apprehended.
The NYPD has charged Truelove with harassment and hate-crime-related burglary, menacing, and criminal trespass. He has yet to be arraigned.
Roker was also back in the studio the following morning for the July 17 broadcast.
Following the incident, Melvin shared a statement in a July 16 Instagram post.
MELVIN ADDRESSED THE INCIDENT ON SOCIAL MEDIA
“Hey, everyone. I’ve heard from so many of you over the last few hours,” Melvin wrote. “I’m doing just fine. Thanks for reaching out. I’m looking forward to seeing you tomorrow morning on @todayshow.”
Court records show Truelove has a prior criminal record, having pleaded guilty in June 2026 to felony criminal mischief for damaging multiple vehicles. He received a six-month jail sentence, five years of probation, and $375 in fines, though it remains unclear how much time he served prior to Thursday’s alleged incident.
Following the incident, the authorities released a statement.
There was no altercation, and no one was injured. Today is cooperating fully with law enforcement as they investigate the matter. NBC and Today take the safety and security of our employees, talent, staff, and guests extremely seriously,” the statement continued.
“We are reviewing the incident and our security protocols and remain committed to providing a safe and secure environment for everyone who works at and visits our studios.”