Nancy Guthrie Case Latest Update: Is Savannah Guthrie Leaving Today? Will Hoda Kotb Replace Her as NBC Prepares Backup Plan?

NBC is reportedly preparing a backup plan as Savannah Guthrie faces growing emotional strain while the search for her missing mother, Nancy Guthrie, continues.

By: Nisha Srivastava
Last Updated: June 30, 2026 08:39:33 IST

Nancy Guthrie Case Latest Update: NBC is reportedly making internal preparations in case Today co-anchor Savannah Guthrie needs to take time away from the morning show as she continues to cope with the heartbreaking disappearance of her mother, Nancy Guthrie.

According to a report by The Sun, citing unnamed sources, network executives are quietly preparing backup plans in case Guthrie needs another leave of absence following disturbing anonymous ransom messages that claimed her mother had died. Investigators have not confirmed those claims, and authorities have not publicly identified any suspects connected to the case. So far, NBC has not commented on the report or announced any changes to Guthrie’s role on Today.

What Happened to Savannah Guthrie’s Mother Nancy Guthrie?

Nancy Guthrie, 84, disappeared from her Arizona home on February 1. Law enforcement officials believe she was abducted during the night, and the investigation remains active. Authorities continue searching for answers, while investigators have not confirmed the anonymous claims that Nancy has died.

NBC Executives Preparing for Savannah Guthrie Leave of Absence

The report claimed network executives understand that Guthrie may need to step away from Today without notice if there is a major breakthrough in the investigation.

A source reportedly said,“The emotional toll is becoming impossible to ignore. Executives are quietly preparing for every possibility.” The same source added,”They hope Savannah keeps working, but they also know she may need to step away without a moment’s notice.” According to the report, NBC’s preparations are intended to support Guthrie while she focuses on her family during this difficult time.

Will Hoda Kotb Replace Savannah Guthrie on Today?

The report states that former Today co-anchor Hoda Kotb is ready to return if Guthrie requires additional time away from the show. A source told the outlet, “If Savannah needs her, she’ll be in that chair immediately. There wasn’t a second of hesitation.” The insider also emphasized, “This isn’t about replacing Savannah. It’s about giving her the space to focus on finding her mother.”

Why Was Savannah Guthrie Missing From Today?

The speculation comes after Guthrie was absent from Today on June 26 and June 29. According to The Sun, both absences were reportedly unplanned. The report also noted that co-anchor Craig Melvin was away from the program on both dates. NBC has not officially explained Guthrie’s recent absences or connected them to the ongoing investigation.

Anonymous Emails About Nancy Guthrie Sent to FBI

Earlier this month, Guthrie became emotional while speaking to viewers after TMZ reported receiving anonymous emails from a person claiming to have evidence related to Nancy Guthrie’s alleged kidnapper. The emails also claimed that Nancy had died and alleged she had been kidnapped by two individuals. TMZ said it forwarded the messages to the FBI. Authorities have not verified the claims made in those emails, and the investigation remains ongoing.

‘She’s Running on Pure Courage,’ Source Says

According to the report, Guthrie continues to appear on television despite the emotional strain caused by her mother’s disappearance. One source described her situation by saying, “Savannah is determined not to let viewers down, but behind the scenes everyone can see how emotionally drained she is. She’s running on pure courage.”

While NBC has not confirmed any contingency plans or schedule changes, the report suggests the network is prepared to support Savannah Guthrie if she decides to step away from Today as authorities continue searching for her mother.

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