Matt Lauer: Savannah Guthrie Is the Most Qualified ‘Today’ Co-Anchor
For Variety’s latest issue, we asked “Today’s” Matt Lauer to write a tribute for his co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, one of 50 people to make our New Power of New York list. Here’s why Guthrie represents a new generation of movers and shakers that capture the best of Manhattan.
She’s not new to my list! From the day I met Savannah, I knew there was something special about her. She was wide-eyed yet whip smart, confident yet klutzy, she had a razor sharp wit but never used it as a shield to hide her true self and deeper feelings. She was the real deal in every way.
By the time she began doing segments for “Today,” she had a resume that was jaw-dropping, but she always seemed eager to learn more and was always willing to embrace areas of uncertainty. It wasn’t long before she slid effortlessly into the role of co-anchor at “Today,” where she was perhaps the most qualified person to ever assume the position.
Now, four years later, she personifies grace, intelligence, charm and just the right amount of goofiness. She is as comfortable interviewing the president as she is the pop stars, as sure footed with breaking news from the Supreme Court as she is with the twists and turns of a Taylor Swift relationship. She makes it look way too easy.
How can someone so respected in both political and legal circles also be a master of emojis and selfies? A powerful journalist, broadcaster, mom, wife and friend. Your list wouldn’t be complete without her.
Matt Lauer is the anchor of “Today.” Read our full New Power of New York List here, as well as tributes for Megyn Kelly (by Judge Judy), Chelsea Clinton (by Bill Clinton) and Ivanka Trump (by Jared Kushner).
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