Savannah Guthrie Breaks Down in Emotional Video Pleading With Mother’s Kidnappers: “We Need Proof She Is Alive”
Savannah Guthrie shared a heart-wrenching video message Wednesday evening, fighting back tears as she directly addressed whoever abducted her 84-year-old mother, Nancy Guthrie, urging them to prove that she is alive.
In the video, posted to Guthrie’s Instagram account, the Today show co-anchor appeared alongside her siblings, Annie and Camron, as the family made a desperate public appeal amid an escalating kidnapping investigation in Arizona.
“She’s 84 years old,” Savannah said emotionally. “Her health, her heart, is fragile. She lives in constant pain. She is without any medication. She needs it to survive, and she needs it not to suffer.”
Family Addresses Alleged Ransom Demands
Guthrie acknowledged reports circulating in the media about an alleged ransom letter, making it clear that the family is willing to engage — but only under one condition.
“We are ready to talk. We are ready to listen,” she said. “But we live in a world where voices and images can be manipulated. We need to know without a doubt that she is alive and that you have her.”
The statement comes just days after law enforcement confirmed that Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance is being treated as a criminal abduction.
“We Need Our Mom”
Earlier in the video, Savannah’s sister Annie spoke through tears, calling their mother the emotional center of their family.
“She is the beacon of our lives,” Annie said. “We’re just normal human people who need our mom. Mama, if you’re listening, we need you to come home. We miss you.”
The siblings’ raw plea underscored the growing urgency as investigators continue to search for answers.
Savannah’s Message to Her Mother
Savannah concluded the video by speaking directly to her mother, her voice shaking as she delivered a message of faith and hope.
“Mommy, if you are hearing this, you are a strong woman,” she said. “You are God’s precious daughter, Nancy. Even in this valley, He is with you.”
She promised that the family will not stop searching.
“Everyone is looking for you everywhere. We will not rest. Your children will not rest until we are together again. We pray without ceasing and rejoice in advance for the day we hold you in our arms again.”
Investigation Turns Criminal
Nancy Guthrie was last seen on the evening of January 31 at her home in the Catalina Foothills near Tucson, Arizona. Police classified her as a missing vulnerable adult due to her age and medical needs.
On Monday, the Pima County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the case is no longer considered a missing-person search.
“I believe she was abducted,” Sheriff Chris Nanos told CBS News. “She didn’t walk away. She didn’t leave willingly.”
Authorities also stated that Nancy shows no signs of cognitive decline and is considered mentally sharp, deepening the mystery surrounding her disappearance.
Public Appeal and Prayer
Savannah Guthrie has been absent from Today since the investigation began. Earlier this week, she asked viewers for help and prayers, later sharing a written message on Instagram expressing the family’s faith.
“We believe in prayer. We believe in humanity. Above all, we believe in Him,” she wrote. “Raise your prayers with ours for our beloved mom.”
Alleged Ransom Note Under Review
On Tuesday night, TMZ reported receiving an alleged ransom note demanding payment in Bitcoin for Nancy Guthrie’s release. Law enforcement confirmed they are reviewing all tips.
“We are aware of reports regarding possible ransom note(s),” the sheriff’s office said. “All information is being routed directly to detectives coordinating with the FBI.”
As the investigation intensifies, the Guthrie family’s plea stands as a powerful reminder that time is critical — and that their hope remains unbroken.