Savannah Guthrie has been a familiar face on the Today Show for over a decade. She took a brief leave of absence in December for vocal cord surgery. She was barely back in the co-host seat before she left again. Viewers haven’t seen her since the end of January. Her 84-year-old mother mysteriously disappeared from her home in Tucson, Arizona. She still hasn’t been found.

With Savannah Guthrie’s return uncertain, a former Today host might be plotting to take over as co-host. Keep reading for all the details.

Savannah Guthrie Makes Emotional Return To Studio

Savannah Guthrie has been in Arizona since her mother went missing. Nancy Guthrie was last seen on Saturday, January 31, and was reported missing the next day. The police labeled the elderly woman’s home a crime scene after blood was found on the porch. The FBI later joined in the search. However, little is known about where Nancy Guthrie could be and who took her.
Savannah Guthrie YouTubeSavannah Guthrie YouTube
Savannah Guthrie has had the full support of NBC and her co-host during the family crisis. The network hasn’t revealed a return date for the long-time anchor. However, Savannah Guthrie was spotted last week at the studio in New York City. Several candid photographs showed the tear-filled reunion. While she’s seemingly back in NYC, she may never return to the morning news program.

Former Today Host Plotting To Take Over Savannah Guthrie’s Job

Savannah Guthrie always described the Today Show as family, and family shows up when needed. Hoda Kotb, who left the show in 2025, returned to fill in for Savannah Guthrie during her extended absence. However, another former host may have their eyes on the anchor chair.
Savannah Guthrie/Credit: YouTubeSavannah Guthrie/Credit: YouTube
Before Jenna Bush Hager took over the show’s fourth hour, talk show vet Kathie Lee Gifford co-hosted with Hoda Kotb. She previously hosted ABC’s LIVE alongside Regis Philbin for 15 years. The popular host left the Today Show in 2019 to pursue other opportunities. However, she could take Savannah Guthrie’s job.

TMZ caught up with the former host outside the NYC studio. They asked her if she misses it at the show. Kathie Lee Gifford said she doesn’t miss it because she’s there all the time. She added that she’s friends with people on the show, so she returns often.

When asked if she would ever come back as a guest-host or full-time, Kathie Lee Gifford said yes. “If they want me or need me, I’m here,” she said before scurrying off. If Savannah Guthrie doesn’t return, one option the network has is to bring back Kathie Lee Gifford.

At this point, Savannah Guthrie is expected to return. The only question is when. The hunt for her mother continues in Arizona. Check back with TV Shows Ace for updates on the situation.