Savannah Guthrie has been a familiar face on Today for over a decade,
but stepping into her role as co-anchor in 2012 was anything but easy.
In a candid interview with Parade, the 53-year-old journalist revealed that she was “terrified”
when she was offered the job, admitting that the transition was fraught with challenges.
At the time, Today was going through a turbulent period following the departure of long-time anchor Ann Curry.
Rumors swirled that Ann’s exit was due to poor on-air chemistry with her co-anchor Matt Lauer, with speculation that Lauer had played a role in pushing her out.
The controversy surrounding the show only heightened the pressure on Savannah as she stepped into the high-profile position.
A Difficult Transition into Today
Savannah reflected on the difficult circumstances that surrounded her promotion, explaining that it was not a joyous occasion for anyone involved.
“I came at a time of a lot of controversy for the show, and it wasn’t, I don’t think, a happy occasion, really – for anyone, including me,” she told Parade.
“What I’ve learned is that there’s a real yearning for deep conversation about things that matter,” she explained. “And it doesn’t mean there’s all these people that agree with me. They may or they may not. It’s just that it opened a conversation, and that’s a gateway to real connection with new people, but also people I’ve known for a long time.”
Savannah’s Enduring Legacy on Today
While her early fears about her Today tenure not lasting were understandable, Savannah has since become a key figure on the show. More than a decade after stepping into the co-anchor role, she remains one of the most recognizable and respected faces in morning television.
Her journey from uncertainty and self-doubt to becoming one of Today’s longest-standing hosts is a testament to her resilience and dedication to journalism. Whether delivering the day’s biggest headlines, moderating political debates, or writing heartfelt children’s books, Savannah Guthrie has proven time and time again that she was meant to be in the spotlight.
