Savannah Guthrie has stepped back from her role in NBC’s 2026 Winter Olympics opening ceremony while her family searches for her missing mother, Nancy Guthrie. The longtime Today co-anchor was scheduled to help lead NBC’s coverage from Italy, but family matters now come first. NBC confirmed she will not travel as the search continues.Savannah Guthrie, 54, was set to co-host the opening ceremony for the Winter Olympics on February 4 from Stadio San Siro alongside veteran broadcaster Terry Gannon. In a statement shared by NBC, a spokesperson said, “Savannah will not be joining us at the Olympics as she focuses on being with her family during this difficult time. 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.”The decision comes as authorities continue to look for Nancy Guthrie, 84, who was reported missing in Tucson. Family members said she had not been seen since the night of January 31. When she failed to arrive at church the next morning, relatives went to her home, searched the area, and then contacted the police.
Search for Nancy Guthrie intensifies as Savannah Guthrie receives support from Today team
Police said Nancy Guthrie’s home is being treated as an active crime scene after investigators found details that raised “grave concern.” The Pima County Sheriff’s Office said search teams used dogs, drones, and aircraft while canvassing nearby neighborhoods. Officials also noted that Nancy left home without medication she needs daily.On Today, co-host Jenna Bush Hager shared a personal note, saying, “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. We are thinking of our dearest, dearest Savannah and her whole family right now in our prayers.”Another co-host, Craig Melvin, told viewers, “This is very concerning to us. We don’t typically get involved at a scene like this, but it’s very concerning.”Authorities said the FBI is aware of the case. They added they do not know if Nancy was targeted because she is Guthrie’s mother and said there is no known danger to the public.Savannah Guthrie shared a brief family statement through Today, saying, “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 at (520) 351-4900.”NBC has not yet announced who will replace Savannah Guthrie for the opening ceremony. For now, the focus remains on the search and on supporting her family.
