Changes to NBC’s 2026 Winter Olympics Coverage
Craig Melvin, a co-anchor on Today and a Westport resident, will no longer serve as a co-host for NBC’s coverage of the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan. The change follows a separate announcement by NBC that Melvin’s fellow “Today” co-anchor, Savannah Guthrie, also will step away from her planned Olympic hosting duties. Guthrie’s departure from the coverage comes as law enforcement continues an active search for her mother, Nancy Guthrie, who was reported missing from her home in Tucson, Arizona, on Sunday. Nancy Guthrie is 84 years old and, as of Thursday morning, authorities confirmed she remained missing.
The situation has drawn public attention after Guthrie shared an emotional video on Instagram on Wednesday alongside her siblings. In the video, the family pleaded for their mother’s safe return, addressing reports that alleged ransom notes had been turned over to investigators. Guthrie had been scheduled to cover the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics, but NBC confirmed she will now be replaced in that role by sportscaster and former professional tennis player Mary Carillo.
Melvin’s role in the Olympics also has been adjusted. He had been slated to host “Olympic Late Night” from February 7 through February 9, but NBC announced he will remain in the United States for the duration of the Games. Taking over his assignment will be Stamford-based NBC Sports presenter Ahmed Fareed. During Wednesday’s broadcast of “Today,” Melvin addressed the situation, noting that many people have “come out of the woodwork” to send prayers and messages of support to Guthrie and her family. He said those messages were something “Savannah and the family needs to hear” during this time.
During the same broadcast, Melvin shared a reflection that he attributed to his pastor, emphasizing faith during difficult moments. “My pastor used to have this saying years ago,” Melvin said. “’It’s easy to be faithful when things are going well in your life. It’s easy to be faithful when you’re at the mountain, top of the mountain, but the God of the mountain is the God of the valley.’” As the investigation into Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance entered its fifth day, authorities stated that no suspect had yet been identified.
Craig Melvin Steps Away From NBC Olympics Duties
As NBC adjusts its on-air plans for the 2026 Winter Olympics, the network continues to monitor the ongoing investigation into the disappearance of Savannah Guthrie’s mother. Both Guthrie and Melvin have stepped back from their scheduled Olympic roles amid the unfolding situation, while replacements have been named to ensure coverage continues. Authorities have not announced any developments regarding suspects, and the search for Nancy Guthrie remains active.
