The noticeable absence of co-host Savannah Guthrie this morning shocked viewers of “Today” Show. Guthrie was replaced on the show by Craig Melvin, however co-host Hoda Kotb provided a brief justification for her absence. And where on earth was Guthrie?
It transpires that Guthrie was on a book tour promoting her most recent book, “Mostly What God Does: Reflections on Seeking and Finding His Love Everywhere.” President George W. Bush and former First Lady Laura Bush came to support her when she stopped in Texas just the day before. How wonderful is it to begin a book tour, huh?
Meanwhile, “Today” Show viewers weren’t very thrilled with Guthrie’s book tour. Their dissatisfaction stemmed from an interview that aired on Thursday, just before her departure. Guthrie had an interview with actress and singer Kelly Rowland on her latest Netflix release, “Mea Cupla.” But it was more than just the movie.
Guthrie highlighted Beyoncé, a fellow member of Destiny’s Child and close friend of Rowland, as another well-known individual during the talk. Supporters claimed it was rude to ask Rowland about her friend during an interview about her own work. A viewer said on social media, “Very disrespectful to ask [Rowland] about Beyoncé every freaking time she comes on your show.”
Guthrie’s tenacity in obtaining further information on Beyoncé further enraged her admirers. Throughout the conversation, a lot of people thought Guthrie was more interested in prying into Rowland’s private life than in focusing on her career and the film she was endorsing.
Whether or not Guthrie’s questions were rude is still up for debate. However, it’s clear that a large number of “Today” Show viewers were dissatisfied with the way the interview was conducted. The incident has sparked conversations on appropriate interviewing practices and the value of respecting the interviewee’s limits.
Even if Guthrie’s absence from the program may not have been related to the unfavorable comments from the interview, it is clear that her actions have had an impact on the show’s loyal following. Although her return has fans thrilled, it’s uncertain how the “Today” Show will handle the matter moving forward.
In the meanwhile, you may watch the full interview in the video below and decide whether or not Guthrie asked inappropriate questions.
