NBC's Today show team is preparing to adopt a flexible and sensitive approach as anchor Savannah Guthrie makes her anticipated return to television next week. According to two insiders at NBC News who spoke to Variety, producers are planning to "play it by ear" for the foreseeable future, crafting segments specifically around Guthrie's comfort and needs.
Tailored Segments and Content Adjustments
The initial phase of Guthrie's return will see showrunners working on segments that are carefully designed to accommodate her situation. One insider revealed that Guthrie may be limited to stories that do not involve crime or violence, at least in the beginning. This adjustment reflects the team's awareness of her personal circumstances.
Additionally, the same source indicated that the show's typically lighthearted and comedic tone might be toned down temporarily. However, the ultimate decisions on how to proceed and for how long will depend entirely on Guthrie's on-air comfort and readiness, as emphasized by the insider.
Background on Guthrie's Absence
Savannah Guthrie, 54, has been off the air since early February due to the disappearance of her 84-year-old mother, Nancy. Evidence suggests that Nancy was taken from her home in Arizona against her will on February 1. Despite an ongoing search that has generated significant public attention, no suspects have been identified, and her whereabouts remain unknown after more than two months.
Guthrie, who has been a Today anchor for nearly 14 years, has been absent throughout this period. In her stead, Craig Melvin, Carson Daly, and former host Hoda Kotb have been filling in to maintain the show's operations.
Guthrie's Role and Past Performance
One source highlighted that Guthrie's presence has historically "set the tone" for each day's news cycle, underscoring her importance to the program. A former criminal defense lawyer, she is renowned for her ability to simplify complex legal matters for viewers.
Her steady presence has been a constant through various challenges, including Matt Lauer's ouster in 2017. Notably, during a 2020 town hall with Donald Trump, Guthrie demonstrated her skill by keeping the president to concise answers while effectively pushing back with fact-checks and follow-up questions.
Expectations for the Return
Publicity executives not affiliated with NBC, who also spoke anonymously to Variety, anticipate that Guthrie will be surrounded by as many of her Today co-stars as possible when she returns on Monday, April 6. They predict she will express happiness at being back while adopting a "please bear with me" approach initially, acknowledging the unprecedented nature of her situation.
The Daily Mail has reached out to NBC News for comment, but Guthrie's return remains a delicate matter for the network, with producers committed to supporting her through this challenging time.
