The “Today” show co-host’s sudden absence from NBC’s Olympic coverage was due to a deeply personal crisis. The situation later took an unexpected turn when the president revealed he had spoken privately with her about her missing mother.On February 4, 2026, NBCUniversal announced that Savannah Guthrie would remain in the United States to focus on her family during what the network described as a difficult time. The announcement explained her absence, but not the scale of what was unfolding.That became clearer when President Donald Trump shared a statement describing a private call with Savannah and the steps he said were being taken to help locate her mother, Nancy Guthrie.

NBC also expressed support for its longtime anchor. “Our hearts go out to Savannah and the entire Guthrie family. They continue to have our full support,” said Molly Solomon, Executive Producer and President, NBC Olympics Production.According to NBCUniversal’s official announcement, Mary Carillo will now co-host the Opening Ceremony alongside Terry Gannon. Ahmed Fareed will step in as “Olympic Late Night” host for the first phase of the Games.Mary, a veteran broadcaster working her 17th Olympic Games, brings deep experience and a personal connection to Italy. She has previously hosted multiple Opening and Closing Ceremonies and is widely respected as a storyteller.