Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Savannah Guthrie to Return After Mother's Mysterious Disappearance

3/23/2026

39 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Savannah Guthrie, anchor of the Today Show, plans to return to work after her children's spring break ends on April 10.
She has been absent since February 1, when her mother, Nancy Guthrie, went missing in Arizona.
Police suspect a kidnapping, after surveillance footage shows a masked man at the door.
During a March 5 visit with colleagues, Guthrie said, "I have every intention of coming back."

History

Historical Context

Elizabeth Smart was kidnapped at knifepoint from her Salt Lake City home on June 5, 2002, by Brian David Mitchell, a family acquaintance. After nine months of captivity, she was rescued on March 12, 2003. This case heightened national awareness of child abduction and led to advocacy for improved safety measures, including the establishment of the Amber Alert system in Utah.

1 of 2

Story summary

Savannah Guthrie, anchor of the Today Show, plans to return to work after her children's spring break ends on April 10.
She has been absent since February 1, when her mother, Nancy Guthrie, went missing in Arizona.
Police suspect a kidnapping, after surveillance footage shows a masked man at the door.
During a March 5 visit with colleagues, Guthrie said, "I have every intention of coming back."

1 / 2