> At a Glance
> – Savannah Guthrie is healing after vocal-cord surgery to remove nodules and a polyp
> – The Today co-anchor must stay completely silent for weeks; she’s using a whiteboard to communicate
> – Guthrie told viewers the issue had left her voice scratchy for years
> – Why it matters: Her openness highlights a common but rarely discussed health issue among broadcasters
After years of on-air hoarseness, Savannah Guthrie has traded her signature voice for a whiteboard. The 54-year-old Today anchor shared an Instagram photo showing the board’s cheery message-“All good! Thanks for prayers and love!”-as she recovers from vocal-cord surgery.
The Diagnosis
Guthrie told viewers the problem had lingered far too long.
> “Some of you have noticed that my voice has been very scratchy and started to crack a little bit,” she said on-air. “Well, I have found out what it is. I have vocal nodules and I also have a polyp.”
Doctors scheduled the procedure for early January, requiring her to be off-air for several weeks.
Surgery & Silence
Post-operation, Guthrie faces strict vocal rest.
- No speaking at all for multiple weeks
- Communicating via whiteboard, gift-wrapped by colleague Sheinelle Jones
- Expected return to Today once cleared by doctors
Jones, who endured the same surgery, offered optimism:
> “The silver lining is you have permission to be still,” she said. “The house gets quiet, the kids are gonna want to help you out.”
Guthrie quipped that her family might consider the forced silence “Christmas coming early.”
Long-Term Outlook
Guthrie expressed relief at finally having answers after years of intermittent voice trouble. She even joked about a possible future singing comeback, referencing her past vocal hobby and teasing, “the tour is happening in 2026.”
Key Takeaways
- Guthrie’s surgery addressed chronic nodules and a polyp
- Complete vocal rest is critical for proper healing
- Colleagues shared encouragement and practical tips
- Viewers can expect her back on Today once recovery protocols are complete

Fans following her Instagram update see a smiling anchor ready to heal, signaling she’ll return to the morning desk with a healthier voice.”

