Savannah Guthrie Pleads for Mother's Safe Return in Video

The Today Show host says family is prepared to pay for Nancy Guthrie's safe return after she was allegedly kidnapped from her Arizona home.

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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Savannah Guthrie released a desperate video plea on Saturday, asking the alleged kidnappers of her 84-year-old mother Nancy Guthrie to return her safely. Guthrie said the family understands the kidnappers' demands and is prepared to pay for Nancy's safe return. The frantic search for Nancy Guthrie has entered its seventh day, with authorities in Pima County, Arizona still working to identify any suspects or rule anyone out in her disappearance.

Why it matters

The high-profile kidnapping of Savannah Guthrie's elderly mother has gripped the nation, raising concerns about public safety and the vulnerability of senior citizens. As a prominent TV journalist, Guthrie's personal tragedy has also shone a spotlight on the emotional toll that such crimes can take on families.

The details

In the video, Savannah Guthrie was flanked by her siblings as she addressed the potential kidnappers directly, saying "We received your message, and we understand. We beg you now to return our mother to us so that we can celebrate with her." Authorities have not disclosed details about any ransom demands or communication from the kidnappers. DNA evidence found on Nancy Guthrie's front porch has been confirmed as a match to her, but police have not identified any suspects or ruled anyone out in the case so far.

  • The frantic search for Nancy Guthrie has entered its seventh day.
  • The alleged kidnapping occurred over the past weekend.

The players

Savannah Guthrie

The co-anchor of NBC's Today Show, who released a video plea for her mother's safe return.

Nancy Guthrie

Savannah Guthrie's 84-year-old mother, who was allegedly kidnapped from her home just outside of Tucson, Arizona.

Chris Nanos

The Pima County Sheriff, who has been leading the investigation into Nancy Guthrie's disappearance.

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What they’re saying

“We received your message, and we understand. We beg you now to return our mother to us so that we can celebrate with her. This is the only way we will have peace. This is very valuable to us, and we will pay.”

— Savannah Guthrie, Today Show co-anchor

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow any potential suspects out on bail.

The takeaway

This high-profile kidnapping case has raised urgent questions about the safety and security of elderly individuals, particularly those living alone, and the need for stronger protections and support systems to prevent such tragedies from occurring.