NBCUniversal will seek a replacement for Savanah Guthrie during its coming telecast of the Winter Olympics, as the “Today” co-anchor grapples with what looks to be an abduction of her mother, Nancy, in Arizona.
“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,” NBC Sports said in a statement. “We will share additional information about our Opening Ceremony coverage plans soon.”
Guthrie had been expected to co-host the event’s Opening Ceremonies with sportscaster Terry Gannon. Mike Tirico, the main primetime host for NBC’s Olympics programming in primetime, is focused on doing play by play for Super Bowl LX on February 8, then flying to Milan once his NFL duties are complete. Tirico will serve as Olympics host after the Big Game ends, talking to viewers from the field at Levi’s Stadium.
Nancy Guthrie was last seen Sunday evening, and authorities have said they believe she was taken from her home in Arizona unwillingly. NBC News has covered the crisis regularly, offering information, statements from the Guthrie family, and contact information for viewers who might be able to provide leads.
Savannah Guthrie has not appeared on “Today” this week, but co-hosts delivered a message from her to viewers Monday. “On behalf of our family, I want to thank everyone for the thoughts, prayers and messages of support,” Guthrie said. “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 office at 520-351-4900.”
NBC Sports could pick from any number of news or sports personalities to fill Guthrie’s role. NBC has sought to bring wider audiences to the Olympics by relying more heavily on different people from the worlds of music and entertainment, including Stanley Tucci and Snoop Dogg.
Source: variety.com
