Hoda Kotb is speaking candidly about her admiration for Savannah Guthrie as the longtime anchor returns to Today, following a deeply personal and challenging period. Kotb, alongside Jenna Bush Hager, recently attended a celebration for Sheinelle Jones and her new book Through Mom’s Eyes. During the event, Kotb reflected on the emotional weight surrounding Guthrie’s return to the show amid the ongoing search for her mother, Nancy Guthrie.
Hoda Kotb praises Savannah Guthrie’s strength with Today show return
Speaking about watching Guthrie step back into her role, Kotb admitted she initially struggled to find the right way to offer support. “It’s been really difficult,” she shared. “At first, I felt a little lost, like I didn’t know what to do to help.” She recalled seeing Guthrie return to the studio, describing the moment as both emotional and inspiring. “My heart was in my throat,” Kotb said. “But I also saw the support and love around her — people on the plaza embracing her.”
Kotb says she’s struck by Guthrie’s resilience. “There are some moments where I just stare at her and think, ‘Wow.’ The strength it takes to do what she is doing is something that I actually don’t know another breathing person who could do it. She’s going through a difficult time, and she’s showing up.”
Kotb recently returned to the Today anchor desk on April 13, marking her first time back since stepping away from the role in January 2025. She appeared alongside Guthrie, with both anchors smiling and engaging as they resumed their on-air dynamic. However, the reunion has also reignited speculation about behind-the-scenes tensions.
According to a recent report, sources have suggested that the pairing between Kotb and Guthrie may not have always been seamless. One insider claimed the partnership “was never a natural pairing,” adding that while the two made it work on air, it may not have been a preferred arrangement behind the scenes.
