Mary Carillo Steps In for Savannah Guthrie to Host Winter Olympics Opening

NBC has announced a change in its hosting lineup for the Winter Olympics opening ceremony, with sportscaster and former professional tennis player Mary Carillo stepping in for Savannah Guthrie this weekend. This decision comes as Savannah Guthrie’s mother, 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, has been reported missing. She was last seen on Saturday evening at her home in Arizona, prompting a family member to alert authorities around noon on Sunday, as noted by Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos.

Originally, Savannah Guthrie was scheduled to co-host the event from Milan, Italy, on Friday. The Winter Olympics are set to run from February 6 to February 22. Following the news about her missing mother, executive producer and president of NBC Olympics Production, Molly Solomon, expressed support for the Guthrie family. She stated, “Our hearts go out to Savannah and the entire Guthrie family. They continue to have our full support.” She further emphasized the network’s preparedness by highlighting Carillo’s credentials, describing her as “one of the most experienced Olympic commentators ever and a master storyteller.” Carillo is set to join NBC Sports correspondent Terry Gannon in leading the American audience through the opening ceremony.

“We are fortunate to have a deep bench of talented commentators who will step in and fill these roles,” Solomon noted.

The network also shared that correspondent Ahmed Fareed, who was initially designated for Olympic daytime coverage, will now take on the role of anchoring Olympic Late Night. This change comes as Guthrie’s fellow “Today” co-host, Craig Melvin, remains in New York to continue his duties on the morning show during Guthrie’s absence.

Solomon added, “With his skill and versatility, Ahmed has proven time and again he can step into any hosting role, and we’re thrilled he’s available to handle our late night coverage before heading to Los Angeles for NBA All-Star Weekend.”

The coverage adjustments highlight NBC’s flexibility and depth in talent, ensuring that audiences continue to enjoy comprehensive coverage of the Winter Olympics.