Savannah Guthrie is adding a new role to her broadcasting career, stepping into prime-time entertainment with a game show for NBC.
The longtime co-anchor of Today revealed Monday that she will host a television adaptation of the popular word puzzle Wordle. The project marks her first major hosting role outside of news programming in more than a decade.
Guthrie shared the announcement during a live broadcast, joined by Jimmy Fallon, who serves as an executive producer. The show has been in development for more than two years in partnership with The New York Times.
“We’ve been holding this secret between us for a long time now,” Guthrie said on air.
A Shift Into Entertainment
The new series will adapt Wordle, the widely popular digital word game, into a fast-paced television competition. Contestants will work in teams to solve puzzles, aiming to replicate the appeal of the online format.
NBC said the show is expected to bring a “family-friendly” tone while encouraging learning and participation.
Fallon praised Guthrie’s fit for the role, noting her experience and enthusiasm for the game. “You are fantastic,” he said during the announcement.
Production is scheduled to begin this summer, with casting already underway.
The program is expected to air in prime time, though an official premiere date has not been confirmed.
Personal Challenges Amid Career Move
The announcement comes during a difficult period for Guthrie. Her mother, Nancy Guthrie, was reported missing earlier this year, prompting the journalist to step away from her duties temporarily.
Guthrie returned to the anchor desk in April after a two-month absence.
She acknowledged the emotional complexity of taking on a new project while coping with personal loss. “It’s strange to say that I’m going to do a game show when your heart is broken,” she said in a recent interview.
Despite those challenges, Guthrie described the show as a positive step forward. She called it “something that’s full of joy,” reflecting on the opportunity to bring light entertainment to viewers.
Guthrie has been a central figure at NBC News since joining the network in 2007. She became co-anchor of “Today” in 2012 and has covered major national and international stories.