Savannah Guthrie, co-anchor of NBC’s Today show, has made a heartfelt appeal for her mother, Nancy Guthrie, who was kidnapped from her home in Tucson, Arizona, nearly six months ago. In a poignant video posted on Instagram, Savannah conveyed her desperation and frustration as the investigation continues without any suspects being identified.
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The emotional message comes as the search for 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie drags on, following her abduction on 1 February. Savannah, aged 54, shared her “very specific message” with the captors, acknowledging the toll the lengthy ordeal has taken on her family. “It has been months since our mom was taken from us,” she stated. “Our family is in agony. We are in a nightmare that will not end. Nothing about our situation has changed.”
In her plea, Savannah expressed the ongoing efforts she and her siblings, Annie and Camron Guthrie, have made to locate their mother. “We have done our part and we will never stop looking for her. We will always ache for her and feel that hole in our hearts,” she explained.
Turning directly to the kidnappers, Savannah urged them to choose compassion over cruelty. “The world can be a cruel and unforgiving place,” she said. “I know that you have tried to do things the right way. So I’m asking you, begging you to do the right thing now. Make the right choice. Help us find her, tell us where to look for her. I truly believe it is never too late to do the right thing.” She concluded her heartfelt message, expressing hope for a resolution: “No matter where we’ve been or what we’ve done, I believe there is always a way home. Please make the right choice.”
The video has resonated widely, with Savannah’s followers and colleagues rallying in support. Former Today co-host Hoda Kotb and fellow anchor Carson Daly were among those who commented, offering words of encouragement and solidarity.
As the investigation proceeds, the Pima County Sheriff’s Department and the FBI continue to analyse doorbell camera footage and several unverified ransom notes related to the case. As of now, no suspects have been named, which has left the family and authorities searching for answers.
A particularly concerning ransom note was revealed during a recent episode of the Crime Junkie podcast by crime journalist Briana Whitney. The note reportedly stated, “Hello, Savannah. We have your mother, Nancy. She is safe but scared. She will be held for ransom, and once payment is received, she will be released unharmed.” Notably, it demanded millions in both US currency and bitcoin, setting two separate deadlines for the transfer.
Whitney disclosed that the note specified an initial demand of $4 million in bitcoin, to be delivered by 5 February, escalating to $6 million if not met. Furthermore, the note ominously warned that if payment was not received by the final deadline, Nancy’s life would be at risk.
The eerie tone of the ransom note extended to threats of violence, stressing the urgency of adhering to their demands. “If the payment is not received by the last deadline on the 9th at 5 p.m., she will be killed. Your mother is aware of this and her life is in your hands,” it stated.
With nearly half a year passing since Nancy’s abduction and no clear leads emerging from the investigation, Savannah and her family continue to endure a harrowing experience marked by uncertainty and anguish. The public appeal serves as a stark reminder of the distress inflicted by such crimes, as well as the hope that even in the darkest times, compassion and humanity can prevail.
Savannah is currently taking a brief hiatus from her duties on the Today show while she prepares for her role as the host of NBC’s upcoming Wordle game show. During her absence, her colleagues Sheinelle Jones and Savannah Sellers have stepped in to cover the broadcast. The Guthrie family remains under the public eye as they navigate this agonising ordeal, with many supporting their plea for Nancy’s safe return.