Hoda Kotb returns to ‘Today’ show with emotional message amid search for Savannah Guthrie’s missing mother

Hoda Kotb made a poignant return to the Today show on February 6, 2026, as the search for her friend Savannah Guthrie’s missing mother, Nancy Guthrie, entered its sixth day. The former co-host joined Carson Daly, Sheinelle Jones, and Craig Melvin to share support amid the ongoing crisis near Tucson, Arizona.

Hoda Kotb’s emotional appearance

Hoda Kotb, who left her full-time Today role in January 2025 after seven years alongside Savannah Guthrie, spoke openly about the heartbreak. “This entire situation is truly heartbreaking, and I’m grateful to be here with you,” Hoda Kotb said. “It’s a feeling of helplessness. We are all closely connected to her and want to provide support.”


Hoda Kotb reflected on Savannah Guthrie’s past kindness during tough times. “I was thinking, who was first at the hospital when Hope was sick? Savannah,” she recalled, referring to her daughter’s health struggles. She highlighted the national support, including vigils and messages from figures like Gayle King. “The nation is rallying around our dear Savannah, believing her beloved mom will be home soon, safe in their loving arms,” Hoda Kotb noted in a voiceover. “I picture Savannah sitting there," Kotb continued, nodding to Savannah's notably absent seat at the table. "I think there's this helpless feeling. I mean, we're all so close to her, and we all want to help her."

Hoda Kotb added, “We’re all so close with her; we all want to help her.” Her visit underscored the tight-knit Today family bonds as Nancy Guthrie remained missing.

Nancy Guthrie Search Updates

Nancy Guthrie, 84, was last seen at her Tucson-area home around 9:30 p.m. on January 31, 2026. Family reported her missing on February 1 after she missed church, and Pima County authorities treated the residence as a crime scene. Sheriff Chris Nanos expressed cautious hope: “I hope we find her safe and sound, but we cannot ignore the evidence we have.”

The Guthrie siblings made public pleas. On February 5, Camron Guthrie posted on Instagram, “To whoever is holding our mother, we want to hear from. We haven’t received any direct communication. We need to connect with you to move forward.” He urged, “But first, we need confirmation you have mom. We want to communicate with you, and we are waiting for contact.”

Savannah Guthrie addressed the situation on February 2: “On behalf of our family, I want to express our gratitude for the thoughts, prayers, and messages of support. At this moment, our focus is on bringing our dear Nancy back home safely.”

'Today ' Show solidarity

Savannah Guthrie skipped airings since February 2, staying in Arizona with siblings Annie Guthrie and Camron Guthrie. Hoda Kotb’s return aligned with the 2026 Winter Olympics opening but shifted focus to solidarity. She also skipped her planned Milan trip amid the news.

Fans praised the gesture online, with one calling it “beyond special.” The moment highlighted enduring friendships in broadcast journalism as hopes persist for Nancy Guthrie’s safe return.