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Former Today show host Katie Couric has expressed her views on the challenging situation facing the program following the indefinite absence of Savannah Guthrie, who is currently away as authorities continue the search for her missing mother, Nancy.
Savannah Guthrie, 54, took a break from her duties on the morning show after her 84-year-old mother disappeared on the night of February 1. In her absence, Hoda Kotb, another former anchor, has stepped in to take over hosting responsibilities.
In an interview with Variety, published on Thursday, February 26, Couric, who co-anchored Today from 1991 to 2006 before moving to CBS, shared her perspective on the emotional strain the staff is likely experiencing, as well as her thoughts on Kotb’s role during this difficult period.
“This situation is tragically unprecedented, and I think it’s really hard to compare anything else to what Savannah and her family are dealing with right now,” Couric said. “Morning shows are like living, breathing organisms, and when something impacts a member of these closely-knit teams, it is devastating for everyone involved.”
She added, “I believe the Today Show team is doing their utmost to manage this situation. It must be incredibly difficult to continue the broadcast while also covering a story about a cherished colleague.”
“They are fortunate that Hoda, who is a familiar and beloved face, is able to step in so seamlessly under very difficult circumstances,” Couric added. “I think they are trying to handle it as well as they possibly can.”
The search for Nancy has been going on for almost a month and investigators have been looking into it as a kidnapping. In Touch previously reported that the FBI is reportedly in communication with Mexican authorities. Officials have not confirmed whether she may have been taken across the border, but the area her home is located is very close to Mexico.