Savannah Guthrie returns to Today show for first time since mother’s disappearance | Media
Today show co-host Savannah Guthrie made an emotional return to the NBC morning show on Monday, 64 days after her mother Nancy was abducted from her home in Phoenix, Arizona.
“Welcome to Today this Monday morning. We’re so glad you’re starting your week with us, and it’s great to be home,” Guthrie told viewers.
Co-host Craig Melvin responded: “Yeah, it’s great to have you back home… It’s great to have you back.”
“Well, here we go, let’s let you know whether we’re ready or not,” Guthrie said.
The hosts then moved directly into the news of the day, relaying the latest news regarding a possible ceasefire in Iran.
Despite the dire circumstances, Guthrie participated in the friendly banter the show is known for as it focused on the college basketball championship. “Shout out to my Arizona Wildcats,” he said. “They managed to qualify for the Final Four”
Ahead of his segment, weatherman Al Roker welcomed Guthrie back to the show, saying: “Nice to see you, honey.” (“Good morning, sunshine,” Guthrie said.)
Guthrie’s 84-year-old mother, Nancy, remains missing. during an interview In the film, which aired late last month with his longtime TV partner Hoda Kotb, Guthrie said he wasn’t sure if he would return to the role he has held since 2012, and the network did not clarify whether Guthrie was returning permanently.
“I don’t know if I can do this,” Guthrie told Kotb. “I don’t know if I belong anymore, but I want to try. I want to try.”
During Monday’s broadcast, Melvin noted that many viewers crowded outside the studio “to welcome back our dear friend” and the camera panned to banners supporting Guthrie.
“There are some very nice signs there,” Guthrie said. “There have been signs for a very long time,” Today show star Carson Daly said. “They’ll be so excited when they see you.”
“I’m excited to see them, I’m hugging them all,” Guthrie responded. “I really felt the love so much.”
Guthrie, who appeared with his colleagues in the second hour of the show, received a great applause.
“You were so beautiful,” he tearfully told the assembled fans. “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 very much.”
