As the search for her missing mother continues, reports are circulating that longtime morning-show anchor Savannah Guthrie may be considering stepping away from her role on Today amid growing concern for her family. The speculation follows comments made by senior editor Paula Froelich on NewsNation, citing unnamed sources who claimed the journalist could be reassessing her future at the network while the investigation remains active. No official announcement has been made by Guthrie or NBC News, and the claims remain unconfirmed.
Guthrie has been absent from the broadcast since early February, following the reported disappearance of her mother from her home near Tucson. Authorities have described the case as a suspected abduction and continue to appeal for public assistance while forensic testing and investigative leads are pursued. Law enforcement officials have stated that evidence at the residence suggests she did not leave voluntarily, and the investigation remains ongoing with federal support.
In an on-air statement read by co-anchor Craig Melvin, Guthrie thanked viewers for their prayers and support and said her family's focus remains on the safe return of her mother. NBC later confirmed she would not travel to Italy as originally scheduled to participate in coverage of the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics. In her absence, correspondent Mary Carillo joined veteran host Terry Gannon for portions of the network's Olympics coverage, while former co-anchor Hoda Kotb returned temporarily to support the team during the emotional period.
The case has drawn significant public attention, with Guthrie and her siblings releasing video appeals urging anyone with information to contact authorities. Investigators have continued to gather evidence, including surveillance footage and forensic material, while emphasizing that many circulating rumors remain unverified. Authorities have repeatedly asked the public to avoid speculation as they work toward resolving the case.
Guthrie joined NBC in 2007 and rose to prominence as a White House correspondent before becoming co-anchor of Today in 2012. She later worked alongside former anchor Matt Lauer until his departure in 2017, becoming one of the program's most recognized faces over the past decade.
While reports about a potential exit from the program continue to circulate in entertainment media, no formal decision has been announced, and network representatives have not publicly commented on her long-term plans. For now, colleagues, viewers, and supporters continue to express hope for her family as the search effort remains active and ongoing.
