‘Today’ Host Savannah Guthrie Absent & Replaced, Why?

The Today Show host Savannah Guthrie was absent from the studio on Wednesday, replaced by a fan favorite: why?

As internet rumors swirl about Savannah’s unpopularity among fans, she was absent from the studio for the second time this month. It has led to speculation that things behind the scenes are not all roses for Savannah. Fans already know that she’s engaged in an ongoing feud with co-host Hoda Kotb. And they have threatened to boycott the show in the past in the hope of pressuring NBC to fire Savannah. Here’s what we know about her second absence this month.

Savannah Absent On July 12

Savannah Guthrie has already been absent in July. On July 12, she was suddenly absent from the studio, and Craig Melvin took her seat. Co-host Hoda Kotb explained that Savannah was “taking a day off mid-week.” She added that Savannah needed, “a little break.”  While on that break, Savannah seemed to live it up with some rock legends. She was photographed at a Bruce Springsteen concert in Hyde Park, London. She and her husband Mike Feldman posed for pics with pals Roger Federer and Jon Bon Jovi. The Today host sported an edgier look than she usually does, with a black crop top and jeans.

But Savannah’s absences don’t usually come with the same fond wishes that other hosts’ do. The outspoken NBC host is often branded “brash” by fans, and she receives criticism for “speaking over” her co-hosts.

Today Host Savannah Guthrie Absent And Replaced Again, But Why?

And that was what happened when she was absent again on Wednesday. Savannah Guthrie stepped out of the studio again on July 19 without any prior explanation. Her role was filled by fan favorite, Willie Geist.

On Tuesday, Savannah was in the studio as usual. She interviewed Christopher Nolan, director of the highly-anticipated and heavy-hitting summer flick Oppenheimer. Savannah posed with fans for photos outside of the NBC studio and waved cheerfully to spectators as she left The Today Show. But then on Wednesday, she was a no-show. Fans immediately took to the internet to praise her beloved replacement, Willie. One fan Tweeted, “@TODAYshow with @WillieGeist alongside @hodakotb is fantastic television.” Another added, “Always enjoy when @WillieGeist is on @TODAYshow.”

However, while fans may enjoy pushing her replacement, Savannah’s absences from the show haven’t all been for fun and games. Over the past year, she has dealt with a round of health issues after a round of health issues. Whether it’s the flu or COVID, Savannah can’t seem to catch a break. It’s unclear if her most recent absences were due to health or fun, but fans are happy to welcome Willie in her absence.

Do you think that The Today Show is better with Willie Geist or Savannah Guthrie at the desk? And why do you think Savannah stepped away from the studio again this week? Share your thoughts in the comments. And catch the whole Today Show crew at 7 AM EST every weekday on NBC.