Savannah Guthrie, Co-Anchor of NBC’s ‘Today’ Show, to Take Leave for Vocal Surgery
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Savannah Guthrie, the beloved co-anchor of NBC’s ‘Today’ show, revealed to viewers that she will be undergoing vocal surgery in the upcoming new year. Sharing the news on air on December 19, Guthrie explained that she has vocal nodules and a polyp that necessitate surgical removal. Following the procedure, she will have to observe strict vocal rest during her recovery period.
The 53-year-old journalist disclosed, “Some of you have noticed that my voice has been very scratchy and started to crack a little bit,” as she candidly addressed her health concerns. She continued, sharing, “Well, I have found out what it is. I have vocal nodules and I also have a polyp. It’s not a big, big deal, but I am going to have surgery in the new year and be off for a couple of weeks, so this is my last day for a little while.”
Despite the necessity of the surgery, Guthrie expressed her excitement at finally pinpointing the issue and being able to address it. She reflected on the prolonged period of dealing with these vocal challenges, indicating relief at finally having a solution in sight. However, one drawback is that Guthrie will need to maintain complete silence for a few weeks post-surgery, prompting her to joke that it would be like an early Christmas gift for her family.
During the show, Guthrie’s co-host, Sheinelle Jones, shared her own experience with a similar surgery and highlighted some of the positive aspects of the recovery process. Jones mentioned that the enforced stillness can lead to a quieter household and an opportunity for loved ones to step in and help out. She even passed on a whiteboard to Guthrie, which she had used herself to communicate during her recovery period.
Amidst the discussion, Jones playfully suggested that perhaps Guthrie might emerge from her vocal rest singing like a renowned artist such as Celine Dion. Guthrie jokingly responded, “Well, you know, it’s really funny, I used to sing. Then I couldn’t sing anymore, and then I couldn’t speak anymore. So who knows, guys, the tour is happening in 2026.”
Having been a staple on the ‘Today’ show since 2012, Guthrie, alongside her co-anchor Hoda Kotb, has endeared herself to viewers with her warmth and professionalism. The mother of two, with daughter Vale, 11, and son Charley, 9, with husband Mike Feldman, has previously faced health challenges, including a past eye surgery necessitated by an accident involving her son.
In a prior instance in 2019, Guthrie had to undergo eye surgery to re-attach her right retina after an incident with her then 3-year-old son. Detailing the nerve-wracking experience when her vision deteriorated drastically before the procedure, Guthrie opened up about the fear she faced at the time.
As the news of Guthrie’s upcoming surgery circulates, fans and colleagues alike send their well wishes for a successful procedure and speedy recovery. The show will undoubtedly miss Guthrie’s presence during her absence but eagerly awaits her return with restored vocal health.