Savannah Guthrie has made an emotional return to NBC's Today show, 64 days after her mother, Nancy, was believed to have been abducted from her home in Tucson, Arizona.
Opening Monday's broadcast, Guthrie told viewers: “Welcome to Today on this Monday morning. We are so glad you started your week with us, and it’s good to be home.” Her co-host, Craig Melvin, replied: “Yes, it is good to have you back home … so good to have you back.” Guthrie then said: “Well, here we go, ready or not, let’s do the news.”
The pair proceeded straight to the day's headlines, including the latest on a potential ceasefire in Iran. Despite the circumstances, Guthrie joined in the show's usual banter, praising her beloved Arizona Wildcats for reaching the Final Four of the college basketball championship. Weather anchor Al Roker also welcomed her back, saying: “Good to see you, my dear.”
Guthrie's 84-year-old mother remains missing. In an interview with Hoda Kotb aired late last month, Guthrie admitted uncertainty about returning to the role she has held since 2012, saying: “I don’t know if I can do it. I don’t know if I’ll belong any more, but I would like to try.” The network has not confirmed whether her return is permanent.
During Monday's broadcast, Melvin noted that a large crowd had gathered outside the studio to welcome Guthrie back. Cameras showed fans holding supportive signs. Guthrie, visibly moved, told them: “You guys have been so beautiful. I’ve received so many letters, so much kindness to me and my whole family. We feel it. We feel your prayers. So, thank you so much.”
