Savannah Guthrie gets top billing every weekday morning when the 'Today' show introduces its cast. In an anguishing twist, the disappearance of her 84-year-old mother has made Guthrie herself the top story, too.
NBC's morning show is reporting news that it is part of, a journalistic challenge made more acute by the conceit that this television format has long been built upon: The on-air team is a family, one that viewers are part of each day. Guthrie has been co-host of 'Today' since 2012.
The probable abduction of Nancy Guthrie from her Arizona home last weekend was the lead story on 'Today' each morning this past week, as it often was on other newscasts.
“Our thoughts and our prayers remain firmly focused on our friend,” said Craig Melvin, Guthrie's co-host. His partner has been replaced this week by Sheinelle Jones, who typically anchors the show’s fourth hour.
The 'Today' show coverage has remained relatively straightforward, given that it affects a person whom its viewers practically 'knew.' Dedicated fans are also familiar with Guthrie's mother, who has made appearances on the show over the years—clips that were replayed this past week.
Melvin and Jones have updated the story with information from reporters on the ground, although it sometimes came at a frustratingly slow pace due to the nature of the case. At one point, reporter Tom Winter remarked, “We’re getting new information; unfortunately, it’s not really new information that can help advance the case.”
Unlike 'Today,' The Washington Post did not assign any reporters to cover the news of their own significant layoffs despite it being a major headline elsewhere. This juxtaposition brought further attention to Guthrie’s coverage — seen as empathetic and professionally handled.
As the story unfolded, the 'Today' show aired a heartfelt video message from Guthrie and her siblings to their mother and potential kidnappers; a decision contrasted with how other networks handled similar tragic circumstances, typically opting for snippets over full broadcasts.
The response has not just been from the show; it is indicative of a larger conversation about how personal involvement influences journalistic practices during crises.
Guthrie's absence was notably felt during NBC's coverage of the Winter Olympics opening ceremony, underscoring the impact of personal matters on professional obligations.
It remains critical to evaluate how media institutions handle stories that cross the boundaries of personal and public interest, especially as they navigate the balance of news reporting and human connection.
