Savannah Guthrie refuses dedicated bodyguard at work as she wants to ‘feel normal’
NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: Savannah Guthrie has reportedly declined to have a dedicated bodyguard after returning to work as the investigation into her mother Nancy’s disappearance continues. Despite the ongoing personal crisis, the TV host “wants to feel normal”.
After being away from work for weeks, Savannah came back to her hosting duty at the ‘Today’ show in early April. At the time, she said at the beginning of the show, “We are so glad you started your week with us, and it is good to be home.”
NBC tightens security at 'Today' studio for Savannah Guthrie
Following her return, NBC reportedly offered her personal protection, including a personal guard, but she refused.
As per a source who spoke with Rob Shuter’s ‘Naughty But Nice’, “She doesn’t want a bodyguard sitting outside her office or walking her through the halls. She wants to feel normal at work.”
However, the network has made sure there’s no security lapse from their side.
The tipster revealed, “There is extra security at the show and throughout NBC right now. The building is locked down tighter than usual. Access is stricter than ever. No pass, no entry — no exceptions.”
Savannah Guthrie does not want to 'feel surrounded by fear'
The source further mentioned that even longtime staff have been asked to follow the rules and regulations when it comes to safety. “Rules are rules right now,” they added.
But the insider also said that “there is no private, dedicated security just for Savannah inside her office. That was her decision.”
The 54-year-old journalist just wants to “walk in, do her job, and not feel surrounded by fear. She’s protected. But she’s not giving up her normal life.”
Outside the office, Savannah’s “security is being handled. But those details are private,” the source confirmed.
Authorities are protecting Nancy Guthrie's home
This came after, in February, the Guthrie family had requested authorities to provide security at Nancy’s home, from where she was reportedly taken away in late January.
A spokesperson for the Pima County Sheriff’s Department (PCSD) in Arizona told PEOPLE that the department will “maintain a presence at Nancy Guthrie’s residence for security purposes going forward.”
“Members of the media and the public are reminded that all traffic laws and private property laws must be followed. No trespassing is allowed on Nancy Guthrie’s property,” they added.
Meanwhile, before returning to work this month, Savannah had visited the 'Today' show studio in March. At the time, she was seen visibly emotional as she met her colleagues.
In a statement, the show had said, "Savannah Guthrie stopped by the studio this morning to be with and thank her TODAY colleagues. While she plans to return to the show on air, she remains focused right now supporting her family and working to help bring Nancy home."
