TV host Savannah Guthrie put on a brave face as she co-hosted the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony in New York City on November 29. Just hours earlier, she had delivered the shocking news that her long-time Today co-anchor Matt Lauer had been fired by NBC for engaging in inappropriate sexual conduct. “This is a deeply emotional moment for all of us,” she said, fighting back tears. “We’re processing this as a team, and it’s not easy.”
A New Chapter for Savannah Guthrie and the Today Show
As the dust begins to settle, Savannah, now 45, and the Today show team are moving forward without Matt. “Savannah has been sitting in the co-anchor’s seat for five years now,” an insider exclusively told Closer Weekly. “She’s grown into her role and knows how to handle tough situations with grace and professionalism.” She’s leaning on the unwavering support of her NBC colleagues, especially Hoda Kotb, who was at her side when the news broke. “Hoda is a true professional, and she’s been a rock for Savannah,” a second insider revealed. “She’s reminding Savannah that while these days are challenging, better times are ahead, and they will get through this together.”
Savannah and Hoda on the day of Matt’s firing. (Photo Credit: Getty Images)
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Charting the Future of the Today Show
Hoda Kotb is likely to continue filling Matt’s former role temporarily, but NBC is carefully considering its options for the future of its flagship morning show, which generates massive profits through ad revenue. “This is one of the most critical decisions the network has had to make in its history,” the first insider said. Names like Sunday Today host Willie Geist and former NBC Nightly News anchor Brian Williams have been floated as potential replacements for Matt. However, much of the responsibility for keeping Today thriving will rest squarely on Savannah’s shoulders. “The stress can be overwhelming, but Savannah is remarkably resilient,” the insider added. “She doesn’t crumble under pressure.”
Savannah played a key role in stabilizing Today’s ratings after Ann Curry’s controversial departure in 2012. As the show faces yet another crisis, “she knows the entire team is looking to her for leadership more than ever before,” the second insider said. “She’s stepping up to the plate and rising to the occasion.” Despite the whirlwind of revelations surrounding Matt, 59, whom she considered a close friend and professional partner, Savannah remains steadfast. “She didn’t see this coming, and it hit her hard,” the insider revealed. “But she’s handling it with poise and professionalism.”
Support from Family and Colleagues
Savannah has found comfort in the camaraderie of her fellow Today anchors, including Hoda, Al Roker, and Kathie Lee Gifford. “The Today anchors have never been closer,” the second insider said. “They’re standing together and focusing their support on Matt’s victims, recognizing that this is a situation he created for himself.” Even with the mounting pressures of work, Savannah finds peace at home with her husband Mike Feldman, 49, their daughter Vale, 3, and son Charley, who turns one on December 8. As Savannah has often said, “Family is my anchor and my source of strength.”
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