Savannah Guthrie, co-host of NBC’s TODAY, shared insights from her home recovery on January 12, 2024, following vocal cord surgery. Despite being unable to speak, Guthrie engaged with her colleagues using a whiteboard while revealing her children’s amusing reactions to her temporary silence.
During the broadcast, her co-host Jenna Bush Hager humorously recalled a recent phone call where Guthrie clapped in response instead of speaking. This light-hearted exchange set the tone for the segment, as Guthrie communicated through gestures and her written notes. Still in the second week of complete vocal rest, she conveyed her feelings by writing on her whiteboard: “good, boring, quiet.”
Creative Outlets During Recovery
Guthrie’s recovery period has not restricted her creativity. She mentioned she has taken up journaling, painting, and reading. Among the books she has explored are “Theo of Golden” by Allen Levi and “Yes and … Daily Meditations” by Richard Rohr. She expressed her desire to use this time for personal growth, stating, “trying to grow as a human.” Co-host Craig Melvin acknowledged her efforts, saying, “You were already a pretty great human before!”
Guthrie also showcased her watercolor paintings, which included a sunset, the TODAY logo, and a black cat, which she created specifically for Jenna Bush Hager. Al Roker playfully suggested that Guthrie’s artwork could be auctioned off given its charm.
Family Insights and Humor
While her colleagues enjoyed the unique communication method, Guthrie’s children—daughter Vale, age 11, and son Charley, age 9—had some amusing remarks about their mother’s condition. Holding up a whiteboard, she revealed their message: “The kids said, ‘Mom, even when you’re quiet, you’re still loud.'” To add a touch of humor, she prepared another note referencing the iconic line from the film Jaws, stating, “We’re gonna need a bigger white board.”
As she prepares to return to Studio 1A next week, her colleagues expressed eagerness for her comeback. Craig Melvin concluded, “Can’t wait to get you back, SG!”
Guthrie’s ability to maintain a positive spirit while recovering from surgery has not only entertained her colleagues but also highlighted the importance of family support and creativity during challenging times.
