Whispers continue to circulate about Savannah Guthrie leaving the Today show. Since 2012, the renowned journalist has been TODAY’s principal co-anchor at NBC News. She fronts the network’s marquee morning program and leads NBC’s special events, news coverage, and high-profile interviews.
Is Savannah Guthrie really leaving the Today show?
While there is no official confirmation that she is leaving the show altogether, Savannah Guthrie may reportedly step away from the Today show again, adding to her time off this year. Former NBC News co-anchor Hoda Kotb is rumored to be the temporary replacement.
The June 27 issue of Rob Shuter’s Naughty But Nice reported, citing an NBC source, that the Today co-host may take another extended leave. A tragic turn in her mother Nancy Guthrie’s missing persons case is said to be the reason. The disappearance of the 84-year-old occurred on February 1, 2026, when she was allegedly abducted from her Arizona home.
“Everyone is deeply worried about Savannah,” the newsletter reported, citing a source within NBC. “She’s showing incredible strength on camera, but every new twist is another emotional blow. No one expects a daughter to carry this kind of heartbreak while hosting live television every morning.”
The source claimed that Hoda Kotb has been put on standby and is ready to resume anchoring immediately if Guthrie opts to step away, or is prompted to.
“Hoda didn’t hesitate,” shared the insider. “She made it clear she’ll be there the moment she’s needed. This isn’t about replacing Savannah—it’s about protecting a friend. Right now, everyone wants Savannah focused on one thing: finding her mother.”
Earlier this month, a second ransom note tied to the unresolved disappearance of Guthrie’s mother emerged. In the message, the alleged abductor apologized to the 54-year-old broadcaster’s family for Nancy’s accidental death and asked for money to return her body (via Mandatory). Given that the note has left Guthrie “absolutely heartbroken,” insiders indicated that Hoda Kotb has agreed to step in on the Today show if she chooses to take leave.
Despite the chatter, Savannah Guthrie hasn’t made any formal statement about taking an extended hiatus. It seems the Today show co-host has kept her plans private amid growing speculation.
