Long-serving NBC Today show anchor Savannah Guthrie has announced she will be absent from the programme for several weeks in the new year to undergo surgery on her voice.
Health Announcement on Air
The 53-year-old broadcaster shared the news with viewers and her co-hosts on Friday 19 December 2025. She explained that persistent issues with her voice had led to a medical diagnosis. "Some of you have noticed that my voice has been very scratchy and started to crack a little bit," Guthrie stated, humourously comparing it to the voice change of Peter Brady from The Brady Bunch.
She revealed the cause: "I have vocal nodules, and now I also have a polyp." While downplaying the severity, calling it "not a big, big deal," she confirmed the need for a procedure. "I am going to have a surgery real early in the new year and be off for a couple of weeks," she said, marking the broadcast as her last for a short while.
Extended Period of Vocal Rest Required
The surgery will necessitate a strict period of vocal rest, meaning Guthrie will be unable to speak at all for a few weeks following the operation. "Totally silent. I know the jokes write themselves," she quipped, adding, "Christmas coming early for my family."
This mandatory silence is a standard postoperative requirement to allow the vocal cords to heal properly after the removal of nodules and polyps, which are non-cancerous growths often caused by vocal strain.
Uncertain Return Date to Today
While Guthrie was clear about the reason for her absence and its expected initial duration, she did not specify an exact date for her return to the Today show studio in 2026. Her announcement concluded the segment, with well-wishes expected from colleagues and fans alike as she prepares for her treatment and recovery.
The popular host's temporary departure will undoubtedly be felt by the programme's regular audience, who have grown accustomed to her presence on the iconic morning news sofa.
