Savannah Guthrie, co-anchor of the TODAY show, is currently on vocal rest following recent surgery on her vocal cords. During the January 12 broadcast, she creatively engaged with her co-hosts from home, using a whiteboard to communicate her thoughts and share insights into her recovery process.
This marks the second week of Guthrie’s complete vocal rest. While she is unable to speak, her presence was felt through her expressive gestures and the messages she conveyed on her whiteboard. Jenna Bush Hager lightheartedly recalled a recent phone call with Guthrie, where instead of answering, she repeatedly clapped in delight, likening her to a seal.
Guthrie communicated her feelings to her colleagues through written words, noting, “good, boring, quiet.” Carson Daly humorously compared the situation to a new game show, showcasing the lighthearted atmosphere among her co-hosts.
Exploring New Hobbies During Recovery
In her time away from the studio, Guthrie has taken up several creative pursuits. She mentioned journaling, painting, and reading books recommended by friends, including Theo of Golden by Allen Levi and Yes and … Daily Meditations by Richard Rohr. Guthrie expressed her intent to use this period for personal growth, stating, “I’m trying to grow as a human.”
Her artistic efforts have resulted in a series of watercolor paintings, some of which she shared during the broadcast. Among her creations are a vibrant sunset, the TODAY logo, and a whimsical black cat made with her daughter Jenna in mind. Al Roker jokingly suggested that these paintings might be auctioned off, highlighting the supportive camaraderie within the TODAY team.
Kiddos Weigh In on Mom’s Silence
While her co-hosts have embraced the unique communication method, Guthrie’s children, 11-year-old Vale and 9-year-old Charley, have also offered their thoughts on her temporary silence. She displayed a message from them on her whiteboard, which read, “Mom, even when you’re quiet, you’re still loud.”
Guthrie added a humorous touch with a second message that played on the famous line from the movie Jaws: “We’re gonna need a bigger white board.”
The support from her colleagues and the lighthearted exchanges have made her recovery period more enjoyable. Craig Melvin concluded the segment by expressing enthusiasm for Guthrie’s return, saying, “Can’t wait to get you back, SG!”
As Savannah Guthrie continues her recovery, she plans to return to Studio 1A next week, ready to reconnect with her viewers and co-hosts. Her resilience and creativity during this challenging time have not only kept her spirits high but have also engaged her audience in a unique way.
