Savannah Guthrie may now be a well-established and beloved figure on Today, but stepping into the role of co-anchor back in 2012 was far from smooth sailing. 

The 53-year-old journalist recently opened up about the challenges she faced when she took on the position, admitting that she was “terrified” at the time.

Guthrie’s promotion came in the wake of the controversial departure of Ann Curry, 

whose exit was widely speculated to be due to behind-the-scenes tensions, particularly with co-anchor Matt Lauer. 

With the public scrutinizing every move, Guthrie found herself stepping into a position clouded by turmoil.

A Difficult Transition into the Spotlight

Taking over a coveted position on one of America’s most-watched morning shows is a daunting task for anyone, 

but the circumstances surrounding Guthrie’s appointment made it even more intense. The Today show was already facing challenges, and Curry’s exit stirred controversy that placed even more pressure on the new co-anchor.

In a candid interview, Guthrie reflected on how difficult the transition was, revealing that it was not a particularly joyful moment for anyone involved. “I came at a time of a lot of controversy for the show, and it wasn’t, I don’t think, a happy occasion, really—for anyone, including me,” she shared.

Despite the incredible opportunity, Guthrie recalled being overwhelmed by fear when the job offer came her way. “I was as terrified as I could possibly be because the bosses at the time had made a decision, and I quite literally was the last to know,” she admitted. “I was so afraid, and I was pretty sure that I wouldn’t last.”

While many journalists aspire to such a prestigious role, Guthrie confessed that her initial reaction wasn’t one of excitement but of doubt and anxiety. “I was in tears when I was offered the job,” she revealed. “And it wasn’t because I didn’t dream of this job like everyone else does. It was because I was sure that it wouldn’t last and that I’d be thrown by the wayside within a few weeks or months.”

Pressure to Perform Under Public Scrutiny

At the time of Guthrie’s appointment, Today was battling for ratings, and the shake-up in the hosting lineup was meant to help the show regain its footing. That only added to the pressure she felt, knowing that her performance would be heavily scrutinized.

Years later, Guthrie has more than proven herself, becoming one of the most recognizable faces on morning television. However, Today underwent yet another major change in 2018 when Matt Lauer was fired following allegations of sexual misconduct. That led to Hoda Kotb stepping into the role of co-anchor alongside Guthrie, creating the first all-female lead duo in the show’s history.

Through all the ups and downs, Guthrie has remained a trusted voice in journalism, though she often finds herself the subject of public curiosity, particularly regarding her political views.

Maintaining Professionalism in a Politically Charged Climate

As a journalist, Guthrie has always strived to remain impartial, but her attendance at the Republican National Convention last year sparked speculation about her political leanings. This isn’t the first time she has been linked to political discussions—back in 2020, she moderated a town hall with Donald Trump, which further fueled debates about her stance.

Despite the speculation, Guthrie has consistently emphasized the importance of objective reporting and keeping personal opinions separate from her work.

Facing New Challenges with Her Book Release

While Guthrie has found her rhythm as a co-anchor, she recently faced another moment of apprehension—this time in the world of publishing. She recently released a children’s book, Mostly What God Does Is Love You, and admitted she was nervous about how it would be received.

“I was so afraid because I didn’t really know how it would be received,” she explained. “What I’ve learned is that there’s a real yearning for deep conversation about things that matter, and it doesn’t mean there’s all these people that agree with me. They may or they may not.”

The book, which explores themes of faith and love, has opened up meaningful conversations, something Guthrie deeply values. “It’s just that it opened a conversation, and that’s a gateway to real connection with new people, but also people I’ve known for a long time,” she said.

A Decade of Success

Despite her initial fears, Guthrie has not only lasted on Today but has flourished, becoming a key part of the show’s success. From navigating the difficult circumstances of her arrival to handling major shifts within the program, she has cemented her place as a respected journalist and morning show staple.

Looking back on her journey, it’s clear that while the road hasn’t always been easy, Guthrie’s resilience and dedication have allowed her to overcome the challenges and thrive in one of television’s most demanding roles.

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