Hoda Kotb recently expressed admiration for former “Today” show colleague Savannah Guthrie as she continues to navigate the ongoing search for her missing mother, Nancy Guthrie. Nancy, 84, was reported missing from her home near Tucson, Arizona, on February 1, and authorities announced on September 28 that they are investigating a new alleged ransom note in the case.
Speaking at her wellness company Joy 101’s Fall Retreat in Amelia Island, Florida, on September 27, Kotb praised Guthrie’s resilience and determination. “When I think about Savannah, I think about her words, which are, ‘We won’t rest until we have answers,’” Kotb said. She described Guthrie as spiritual, devoted to her family, and strong despite the emotional challenges she faces.
Kotb recalled the impact Guthrie’s situation has had on others as well, recounting how women at a previous Joy 101 retreat reached out to convey their support and prayers. One woman, coping with her own family’s medical struggles, said she found strength after watching Guthrie’s public response to her mother’s disappearance. Kotb acknowledged the inspiration Guthrie has provided, noting, “The inspiration that she’s giving...through all of it, to me, is immeasurable.”
Kotb emphasized the importance of simply being present for friends in difficult times, saying, “The only thing...is just to be present and be around when they need you.” She expressed deep affection for Guthrie and a desire to offer comfort amid the ongoing ordeal.
Since leaving the “Today” show in 2025 to focus on her wellness venture, Kotb has maintained ties with NBC, returning to anchor the program temporarily in February while Guthrie took leave. That same month, Kotb led a poignant interview in which Guthrie addressed her family’s ordeal, vowing, “I will not let whoever did this take my children’s mother from them. I will not let them take my joy.” Kotb reflected on Guthrie’s strength, highlighting her commitment to raising her two children, Vale, 12, and Charles, 9, despite the crisis.
Kotb and Guthrie began co-anchoring “Today” together in 2018, making history as the show’s first female anchor duo. Kotb joined NBC in 1998 as a “Dateline” correspondent before moving to “Today.” Now in her 60s, Kotb has shifted focus toward wellness education through Joy 101, an app and event platform promoting well-being.
Kotb continues to contribute to NBC and host the “Making Space” podcast. She described the transition from news anchor to wellness advocate as a “brand new life” and credited her years in broadcast journalism for equipping her with skills that have eased her current endeavors. She highlighted recent interviews, including one with the stars of “Practical Magic 2,” Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman, calling it her “favorite interview ever.”
Looking ahead, Kotb plans additional interviews, including with retired NFL quarterback Drew Brees, and will join Guthrie for NBC’s coverage of Macy’s 100th Thanksgiving Day Parade on November 26. “I’m in the mix,” she said, signaling her ongoing involvement with the network.