> At a Glance
> – Savannah Guthrie is off Today for vocal-cord surgery to remove a polyp and nodules
> – She must stay “totally silent” for weeks; no return date given
> – Sheinelle Jones and rotating staff are anchoring with Craig Melvin
> – Why it matters: Fans rely on her morning presence and want clarity on recovery timeline
The familiar voice that greets millions each morning has gone quiet. Savannah Guthrie has stepped away from the Today anchor desk to heal from vocal-cord surgery, leaving viewers wondering when she’ll be back.
The Surgery & Silence Order
Guthrie revealed on Dec. 19 that doctors found nodules plus a polyp causing her scratchy, cracking voice. The procedure requires complete vocal rest.
> Guthrie told viewers:
> > “It’s not a big, big deal, but I am going to have to have a surgery in the new year and be off for a couple of weeks.”
Recovery means absolute silence-no talking at all for several weeks. Co-host Sheinelle Jones, who had the same surgery, gave Guthrie a whiteboard to communicate.
On-Air Absence & Fill-Ins
Viewers first noticed her missing seat on Jan. 5, 2026. While pre-recorded New Year’s wishes aired Jan. 1, live shows now rotate anchors beside Craig Melvin.
Current fill-ins include:
- Sheinelle Jones (Jan. 5 broadcast)
- Peter Alexander, Laura Jarrett, Willie Geist (previous rotations)
NBC has not confirmed if Jones will hold the seat throughout Guthrie’s recovery or if others will cycle in.
Health Updates From Home
Guthrie posted an Instagram selfie on Jan. 5 holding a whiteboard that read: “All good! Thanks for prayers and love!”
> Her caption promised:
> > “See you soon!”
Former co-anchor Hoda Kotb and other colleagues flooded the post with supportive messages urging her to rest.
Key Takeaways
- Guthrie’s vocal-cord surgery requires weeks of total silence
- No official return date has been announced
- Rotating Today staff are filling her anchor chair
- She says recovery is “all good” and plans to be back on air
Until doctors clear her voice, the morning desk will feel a little quieter for loyal Today viewers.
