Savannah Guthrie Returns to Today Show Following Mother’s Disappearance

Savannah Guthrie officially returned to the Today show broadcast on Monday, April 6, marking her first appearance since her mother, Nancy Guthrie, disappeared in Arizona. The return follows a two-month absence during which Guthrie stepped away to support her family while authorities investigated her mother’s disappearance.

An Emotional Homecoming on the Today Plaza

During the April 6 broadcast, Guthrie expressed her gratitude for being back, telling co-anchor Craig Melvin, “It’s good to be home.” The emotional weight of the moment became evident when Guthrie walked out to the Today plaza, where fans welcomed her with applause and signs of support. Guthrie fought back tears, thanking the crowd for their letters and prayers, while co-anchor Al Roker provided her with a handkerchief.

Roker noted the symbolic timing of the return, pointing out that April 6 fell on the Monday after Easter Sunday. He described the timing as “almost symbolic after Easter and the resurrection, the rising,” suggesting that the Today family would hold hands to help Guthrie through her transition back to the desk.

Timeline of Nancy Guthrie’s Disappearance

The crisis began in early 2026 when Nancy Guthrie went missing in Arizona. According to reports, Nancy was last seen on January 31 at her home. She was officially reported missing in February, prompting Savannah Guthrie to take a leave of absence to be with her family.

Colleague Support and the Role of Hoda Kotb

During Guthrie’s absence, the Today show received significant support from former co-anchor Hoda Kotb. Although Kotb departed the show in 2025, she returned in February to fill in for Guthrie. As Guthrie resumed her role, Kotb shared a supportive message on Instagram, posting a throwback photo of Savannah with her children, Vale, 11, and Charley, 9, with the caption “With you xoxo.”

Other colleagues, including Jenna Bush Hager, who attends the same church as Guthrie, also offered their support during the transition.

Finding Purpose Amidst Grief

Prior to her official return, Guthrie sat down for an emotional interview with Hoda Kotb to discuss the grief her family has suffered. Guthrie admitted that returning to a show characterized by “joy and lightness” felt daunting, but she believes her return is part of her purpose.

“I can’t come back and try to be something that I’m not. But I can’t not come back, because it’s my family,” Guthrie stated. She further explained her mindset, saying, “My joy will be my protest. My joy will be my answer.”

Key Takeaways: Savannah Guthrie’s Return

• Return Date: April 6, 2026.
• Reason for Absence: The disappearance of her mother, Nancy Guthrie, in Arizona.
• Timeline: Nancy Guthrie was last seen Jan. 31 and reported missing in February.
• Support System: Hoda Kotb filled in during February; Al Roker and Craig Melvin welcomed her back.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did Savannah Guthrie return to the Today show?

Savannah Guthrie officially returned to the broadcast on Monday, April 6, 2026.

Who is Nancy Guthrie?

Nancy Guthrie is Savannah Guthrie’s mother, who was reported missing in Arizona in February 2026 after being last seen on January 31.

Who filled in for Savannah Guthrie during her absence?

Hoda Kotb, who left the show in 2025, stepped back in to anchor the show in February during Guthrie’s leave.