A tearful Savannah Guthrie, in her first interview since her 84-year-old mother was apparently abducted from her Arizona home, stated that “someone needs to do the right thing” and come forward with information to aid the investigation.
“We are in agony,” she disclosed to NBC News colleague Hoda Kotb during the portion of the interview broadcasted Wednesday on the 'Today' show. She described waking up in the middle of the night, contemplating her mother’s ordeal.
NBC announced that a full interview with its 'Today' show host will be aired on Thursday and Friday, marking Guthrie's first interview since her mother was reported missing on February 1. Based on security footage, authorities are treating the incident as a possible kidnapping.
The emotional toll was palpable as both Guthrie and Kotb shed tears during their brief interaction on Wednesday. Kotb, who has returned to the 'Today' show, noted the profound despair surrounding Guthrie's circumstances.
During the interview, Guthrie also expressed her disbelief at her mother’s terrifying situation, emphasizing, “those thoughts demand to be thought. And I will not hide my face. But she needs to come home now.”
Despite the family's offer of a $1 million reward for tips regarding the case, progress appears slow. Last weekend, Guthrie's family urged neighbors in Arizona to reflect on their memories and report any relevant information, emphasizing that “no detail is too small.”
Kotb remarked on the situation's gravity, stating that “there is a desperation and a steeliness about Savannah. She hopes that somebody, whoever that person is, will say something.”
Since 2012, Guthrie has co-hosted NBC’s morning show, and while her return is anticipated, a definite timeline has yet to be established as she focuses on her family during this challenging period.
