Savannah Guthrie Opens Up About Joining Today in 2012 and Fearing It Wouldn’t Last
Last week, The Today Show bid a heartfelt farewell to beloved host Hoda Kotb in an emotional episode that left viewers both teary-eyed and reflective. Amid the tearful goodbye, co-anchor Savannah Guthrie took a moment to share her personal journey, shedding light on her beginnings as an NBC morning anchor over a decade ago. Savannah revealed that she wasn’t just fearful about her role at Today but was also certain that her tenure would be shorter than expected.
As Craig Melvin steps in to replace Hoda Kotb, the dynamic duo of Savannah Guthrie and Craig Melvin has been warmly welcomed by audiences and industry insiders alike. Their partnership marks a new chapter for the historic morning talk show, bringing fresh energy and perspectives to the screen.
In a recent conversation with Parade, Savannah, and Craig reminisced about their early interactions and how their friendship developed long before the recent shakeup in the 2025 TV schedule. Both hosts had known each other from their time in Washington D.C., and Savannah shared insights about her transition to 30 Rock before eventually landing her role on Today, reported by Cinema Blend.
Reflecting on her promotion, Savannah admitted that taking over as a new head anchor was a daunting experience. “I was very nervous about it because, obviously, she’s the queen of everything, but she could not have been nicer,” Savannah recounted, referring to her interactions with influential figures in the industry. This transition period was marked by uncertainty and high expectations, making Savannah’s ascent both challenging and rewarding.
Before her promotion, Savannah served as the 9 a.m. anchor and head legal correspondent for Today. She described the move to co-anchor as feeling “too good to be true,” highlighting the mix of excitement and apprehension that comes with such a significant career milestone. Over the years, her dedication and genuine personality have endeared her to viewers, solidifying her role as a staple of the morning show.
Despite the initial fears, Savannah’s career with Today has only flourished, accompanied by a salary increase comparable to Craig Melvin’s recent bump. However, parting ways with Hoda Kotb was bittersweet. “It was pretty sad to see her part ways with Kotb,” Savannah shared. “I’m glad that she and her new co-host already had a relationship so it’ll make the transition easier on everyone involved.”
Savannah also touched upon her emotional response to the role in her book, “What God Does,” where she discussed the fear of being let go despite her accomplishments. “I was crying about the position not because it was my goal but because I feared being let go eventually,” she revealed. This vulnerability underscores the pressures faced by those in high-profile positions and the importance of support systems in navigating career transitions.
One of Savannah’s most cherished memories is her 2016 interview with Buzz Aldrin, the second man to walk on the moon. “I couldn’t believe I was actually in the same studio as somebody who had walked on the moon. I sat there as a 10-year-old watching it on a black-and-white telly with my dad,” she reminisced. This interview remains a highlight of her four-decade-long career, showcasing her ability to connect with guests from diverse backgrounds.
As Savannah Guthrie and Craig Melvin embark on their journey as co-hosts, their established rapport promises a smooth transition for The Today Show’s loyal audience. Savannah’s blend of professionalism and warmth continues to make her a beloved figure in morning television, ensuring that The Today Show remains a trusted source of news and inspiration for millions.
Savannah Guthrie’s honest reflection on her career and personal challenges highlights the resilience and dedication required to thrive in the competitive world of broadcast journalism. Her story serves as an inspiration to aspiring journalists and underscores the importance of staying true to one’s roots while embracing new opportunities.