Savannah Guthrie Steps Away From Today Amid Mother’s Disappearance, Return Uncertain

Savannah Guthrie is reportedly not expected to return to Today anytime soon following the disappearance of her 84-year-old mother, Nancy Guthrie. The longtime NBC anchor has been absent from the morning program since February 1, choosing instead to focus entirely on her family during what sources describe as an “unimaginable” time.

Multiple television insiders say a quick return to the anchor desk appears unlikely. “There’s no way Savannah’s coming back right now,” one industry source shared. “I can’t imagine she would even want to under these circumstances.”

While speculation continues, others close to the situation caution that nothing has been definitively decided. For now, Guthrie’s priority remains the ongoing search for her mother, whose disappearance has left family, friends, and colleagues deeply concerned. No suspect has been named, and authorities continue to investigate.

Guthrie, 54, has co-anchored Today since July 2012 and is widely regarded as a central figure in the show’s dynamic. One executive described her as “the glue” of the program, adding that her absence has significantly shifted the atmosphere on set.

In the meantime, former co-anchor Hoda Kotb has stepped in to help fill the gap. Kotb, who departed NBC in January 2025 after 26 years with the network, returned temporarily to support the team during the crisis. Network executives are reportedly taking a week-by-week approach as they monitor the situation.

NBC has publicly expressed its support for Guthrie, with insiders emphasizing that the entire network is rallying around her. “Everyone at Today is taking this day by day and giving Savannah the grace, time, and support she needs,” a source said.

Contract discussions may also loom in the background. Reports in late 2024 indicated that Guthrie had just over a year remaining on her $7 million-per-year deal, meaning renewal conversations could soon become relevant. However, those matters appear secondary as she remains focused on her family.

Friends say Guthrie appears devastated by her mother’s disappearance. Public appeals for Nancy’s safe return have been made by Savannah and her siblings, Annie and Camron, as the search continues.

For now, the Today desk remains without one of its most familiar faces, as Savannah Guthrie devotes herself fully to her family during this deeply personal crisis.