Savannah Guthrie, the beloved co-host of NBC's flagship morning programme, has officially confirmed the date for her highly anticipated return to the Today show. The 54-year-old presenter has been absent from the studio since mid-December after undergoing a necessary surgical procedure on her vocal cords.
Silent Confirmation and Recovery Journey
In a unique and silent guest appearance on the show on January 12, Guthrie communicated with viewers by mouthing her message and using a whiteboard. She confirmed she would be back sitting alongside her colleague Craig Melvin "next week." This means fans can expect to see her back in her familiar seat in Studio 1A at Rockefeller Center in New York City from January 19.
Guthrie first announced her planned hiatus during the December 19 episode, revealing she had been diagnosed with vocal cord nodules and a polyp that required surgical removal. She explained to viewers at the time that she had been struggling with a scratchy and cracking voice for years. "Well, I have found out what it is. I have vocal nodules and I also have a polyp," she said. "It's not a big, big deal, but I am going to have to have a surgery in the new year and be off for a couple of weeks."
Successful Surgery and Vocal Rest
The journalist expressed relief at finally having a diagnosis and a solution to the long-standing issue. Following the procedure, she was required to be on complete vocal rest, remaining "totally silent" to allow for proper healing.
Guthrie shared a positive health update on January 5 via Instagram, posting a selfie with a whiteboard that read, "All good! Thanks for prayers and love!" She captioned the photo, "See you soon!" indicating her recovery was progressing well.
Keeping Busy During Recovery
During her January 12 appearance, still unable to speak, Guthrie used her whiteboard to share how she has been passing the time while recovering. She listed activities including journaling, reading, and painting, humorously adding that she is also "growing as a human." Co-host Craig Melvin warmly replied, "You were already a pretty great human before!"
In a touching family moment, Guthrie also shared that her two children, Charley and Vale, had observed that "even when you're quiet, you're still loud," a testament to her vibrant personality even during her enforced silence. With her surgery declared a success and her return date now set, viewers eagerly await her vocal comeback to the morning broadcast.
