Today Show Star Savannah Guthrie to undergo surgery, will miss weeks of work

Today show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie announced on Friday that she will undergo surgery and be off work for several weeks. She told viewers that her voice has been increasingly scratchy and had begun to crack in recent months, and she disclosed that she has vocal nodules and a polyp.

Guthrie said she has vocal nodules, and now a polyp, adding that she told viewers it is not a big deal but that she will need surgery early in the new year and will be silent for a couple of weeks. She described the temporary absence as a pause for healing and noted it would be a change for the show's on-air team.

The move comes after years of vocal strain for Guthrie, who has faced ongoing voice issues while on air. She described the surgery as a step she is taking with her family in mind, noting that it will require silence for a period. She added that she will be silent for a couple of weeks, joking that the jokes write themselves.

Co-host Sheinelle Jones, who has undergone the same operation, gave Guthrie a whiteboard to communicate with her family, while Craig Melvin offered prayers for healing and recovery. Guthrie said the decision reflects a goal to return with her voice stronger and more consistent.

Her timing is described as real early in the new year, with a planned two-week absence, though NBC has not released a firm medical timeline. The update gives viewers context about what to expect in NBC News' morning lineup during Guthrie's temporary absence and supports staff planning across the holiday period.

In general, vocal nodules and polyps are common among broadcasters and other voice-intensive professionals. Medical guidance often includes a period of rest, possible surgery, and voice therapy to rehabilitate the vocal cords. Guthrie's team will likely provide updates as the plan progresses.