In a deeply personal and difficult decision, veteran NBC anchor Savannah Guthrie has stepped away from her scheduled role in the network's coverage of the 2026 Winter Olympics opening ceremony. This move comes as her family intensifies efforts to locate her missing mother, Nancy Guthrie, whose disappearance has prompted a large-scale search operation in Tucson, Arizona.
Family First: Guthrie Prioritizes Personal Crisis Over Professional Commitment
The 54-year-old co-anchor of NBC's Today show was slated to co-host the prestigious opening ceremony broadcast from Italy's Stadio San Siro on February 4 alongside seasoned broadcaster Terry Gannon. However, NBC has officially confirmed that Guthrie will not be traveling to the Olympic venue as planned. In a heartfelt statement released by the network, a spokesperson expressed solidarity with the Guthrie family during this challenging period.
"Savannah will not be joining us at the Olympics as she focuses on being with her family during this difficult time," the statement read. "Our hearts are with her and the entire Guthrie family as the search continues for their mother. We will share additional information about our Opening Ceremony coverage plans soon."
Intensifying Search for Nancy Guthrie Raises Grave Concerns
The decision follows the troubling disappearance of 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, who was last seen on the night of January 31. Family members grew alarmed when she failed to appear at church the following morning, prompting them to check her home and subsequently contact law enforcement authorities.
The Pima County Sheriff's Office has escalated the search operation, treating Nancy Guthrie's residence as an active crime scene after investigators uncovered details that have raised "grave concern." Search teams have deployed multiple resources including K-9 units, drones, and aircraft while canvassing nearby neighborhoods. Authorities have emphasized a critical detail: Nancy left her home without the daily medication she requires for survival, adding urgency to the investigation.
Today Show Colleagues Express Support and Concern
On the Today show, co-host Jenna Bush Hager shared a personal perspective, highlighting the medical urgency of the situation. "I know her personally. And we want to just report, too, that she takes daily medication and she needs them for survival. She's without her medication," Hager revealed. "We are thinking of our dearest, dearest Savannah and her whole family right now in our prayers."
Fellow co-host Craig Melvin echoed these sentiments, telling viewers, "This is very concerning to us. We don't typically get involved at a scene like this, but it's very concerning." The show's team has rallied around Guthrie, demonstrating the close-knit nature of the broadcast family during this crisis.
Law Enforcement Involvement and Family Statement
Authorities have confirmed that the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is aware of the case, though they have stated there is no known danger to the general public. Investigators have also clarified that they do not believe Nancy Guthrie was specifically targeted because of her daughter's celebrity status.
Savannah Guthrie shared a brief family statement through the Today show, expressing gratitude for the ongoing efforts. "Right now, our focus remains on the safe return of our dear mom. We thank law enforcement for their hard work on this case and encourage anyone with information to contact the Pima County Sheriff's Department," the statement conveyed, providing the contact number (520) 351-4900 for potential leads.
Olympics Coverage Adjustments and Ongoing Support
NBC has not yet announced who will replace Savannah Guthrie for the opening ceremony coverage, leaving a significant gap in their broadcast lineup. The network's immediate focus, however, remains on supporting Guthrie and her family during this distressing time.
As the search for Nancy Guthrie continues with increasing intensity, the broadcasting community and viewers alike await positive developments. The situation underscores the difficult balance between professional responsibilities and personal crises, with Guthrie's decision highlighting the paramount importance of family during emergencies.
