Savannah Guthrie, the beloved anchor of NBC's TODAY, is once again making headlines, but this time for a different reason. After returning to the show three months ago following a leave of absence to care for her family during her mother's disappearance, Guthrie has now announced another extended break, this time to embark on an exciting new venture.
A New Adventure: Hosting Wordle
Guthrie, who has been a staple on the TODAY show for years, has been tapped to host a new game show adaptation of the popular New York Times game Wordle. The show, which will be produced by The New York Times and executive produced by Jimmy Fallon, is set to begin filming in Manchester, England, and will likely air in the new year. This marks a significant shift in Guthrie's career, as she transitions from her morning show duties to a new, exciting challenge.
A 'Full Circle' Moment
The announcement of Guthrie's new role came during the July 16 installment of the morning show, where she shared her excitement about the upcoming project. She explained that she will be taking a few weeks off to film the entire first season of the show, a decision that was made with the support of her colleagues and the production team. The news was met with enthusiasm, as the TODAY show team had previously grown obsessed with the Wordle phenomenon, making Guthrie's journey to becoming the show's host a fitting 'full circle' moment.
A Challenging Journey
Guthrie's path to hosting Wordle has not been without its challenges. She revealed that the filming was initially scheduled to start earlier, but due to her mother's disappearance, the production team accommodated her needs, pushing back the start date. This gesture from NBC and The New York Times was met with gratitude from Guthrie, who acknowledged the difficult circumstances and the support she received during that time.
Personal Reflection
In a separate statement to The NYT, Guthrie expressed the emotional complexities of her situation. She noted the contrast between her daily routine on the TODAY show and the prospect of hosting a game show, especially given the recent personal challenges she has faced. Despite the difficulties, she remains determined to navigate this new phase with resilience, emphasizing the joy and excitement of the project.
Conclusion: A New Chapter
As Guthrie embarks on this new adventure, it is clear that she is embracing the opportunity with enthusiasm and a sense of purpose. Her decision to take a break from the TODAY show to focus on this new venture highlights her dedication to exploring new horizons and her willingness to adapt to changing circumstances. With the support of her colleagues and the production team, Guthrie is poised to make a successful transition into her new role, leaving a lasting impact on both the TODAY show and the world of game shows.
