Savannah Guthrie to Host New Wordle Game Show Amid Personal Turmoil
Roger EbertPulitzer Prize-winning film critic whose reviews and essays defined cinema criticism for decades.
In a recent development, renowned television personality Savannah Guthrie has revealed her upcoming role as the host of a new Wordle game show, a venture co-produced by late-night host Jimmy Fallon. This exciting career move, announced on the 'Today' show, comes during a period of personal difficulty for Guthrie, as the search for her missing mother continues. The project marks a significant step for the popular word-guessing game 'Wordle' into mainstream television, offering contestants a chance to win monetary prizes.
The announcement was made during a segment on the 'Today' show, where Jimmy Fallon joined Guthrie to share the news. Fallon, who is an executive producer for the show alongside 'The New York Times', expressed his enthusiasm for Guthrie's involvement. He highlighted her suitability for the role, citing her natural ability to host and her established reputation as an ardent Wordle player. The production team demonstrated remarkable understanding and support, postponing the show's initial filming schedule to accommodate Guthrie's need to attend to her family's crisis. This gesture of compassion allowed her to focus on the search for her mother, Nancy Guthrie, who was reported missing in February.
Guthrie herself acknowledged the unusual timing of this professional milestone amidst her personal struggles. She described the new game show as a source of joy and expressed her appreciation for the production team's flexibility. The game show is envisioned as a fast-paced and engaging family-friendly program, appealing to a wide audience, including children, with its educational value. Guthrie's history with Wordle is well-documented; she notably solved a large-scale Wordle puzzle displayed on Times Square's 'Mega-Zilla' screen in March 2025, further solidifying her connection to the game.
The upcoming Wordle game show, which will feature contestants vying for cash prizes, is poised to capitalize on the immense popularity of the online game. Since its launch in 2021 and subsequent acquisition by 'The New York Times', Wordle has become a global phenomenon, captivating millions with its daily word puzzles. The television adaptation aims to bring this interactive experience to a broader audience, fostering a sense of communal engagement and intellectual challenge. Filming for the show is slated to commence this summer, with details regarding its premiere date to be announced.
As Savannah Guthrie embarks on this new chapter in her career, the juxtaposition of her professional success with her ongoing personal ordeal underscores her resilience. Her dedication to both her work and her family has been evident throughout this period. The 'Today' show team, including co-anchor Craig Melvin, has openly supported her, emphasizing her indispensable role and expressing their anticipation for her return after filming. This project not only signifies a new entertainment offering but also highlights the supportive community surrounding Guthrie during a challenging time.

