Savannah Guthrie, co-host of NBC’s “Today” show, returned to her hometown of Tucson, Arizona, to film a special segment celebrating the city’s beauty, culture, and people. Known for her warmth and authenticity, Guthrie described the segment as her “love letter to Tucson.” The feature, which aired during the 8 a.m. hour on Wednesday, offered viewers a personal glimpse into the city that shaped her childhood and early career.
Filming the Tucson Tribute
The filming took place on October 17 and lasted about eight hours, capturing some of Tucson’s most iconic landmarks. Guthrie began her day at Saguaro National Park, soaking in the stunning desert sunrise, and ended it at the University of Arizona, her alma mater. Stops along the way included the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, lunch at El Charro Café, and mural painting with local artist Joe Pagac. The busy schedule was the result of detailed planning by “Today” producer Jennifer Long, who even met Guthrie’s mother during a scouting trip earlier that month.
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Tucson’s Unique Spirit on Display
Throughout the segment, Guthrie highlighted Tucson’s unique blend of natural beauty, Mexican cuisine, and community spirit. She confessed her passion for authentic Mexican food, calling it her “number one priority” whenever she visits home. “It’s funny because my family has it all the time, but I insist on it at least one night,” she said. The episode offered national viewers a taste of Tucson’s signature charm, from cacti-covered mountains to breathtaking desert sunsets.
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A Joyful Reunion and Warm Welcome
Guthrie’s return to Tucson was more than just professional—it was deeply personal. She reunited with her mother, who still lives in the same house where Guthrie grew up. Locals warmly greeted her at every stop, including a round of applause when she entered El Charro Café. Tucson Mayor Regina Romero and University of Arizona President Suresh Garimella joined her during the shoot, as did a special guest—Pinecone, a 7-month-old porcupine making his television debut. Guthrie’s laughter while walking Pinecone on a leash was one of the shoot’s most memorable moments.
Revisiting Her University Roots
Guthrie’s return to the University of Arizona campus marked her first visit since giving the 2011 commencement address. Walking through Old Main, she reminisced about her college days and even stopped by her Pi Beta Phi sorority house, where she was greeted with excitement by current members. These moments stirred nostalgia as Guthrie reflected on her early journalism days and the foundation the university provided for her career.
From Local Reporter to National Icon
Born in Australia and raised in Tucson, Guthrie attended Amphitheater High School and developed an interest in journalism during her college years. She began writing for the Tombstone Epitaph and worked behind the scenes at the local PBS station. After graduating in 1993, she launched her TV career at Tucson’s NBC affiliate KVOA Channel 4 before pursuing law school at Georgetown University. Her path eventually led back to television, where she rose to become one of America’s most respected news anchors.
A Touching Connection to Tucson
This homecoming wasn’t Guthrie’s first Tucson-based story. In 2011, she covered President Barack Obama’s visit following the tragic Tucson shooting that injured Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords. That segment, filled with emotion and empathy, closed NBC Nightly News that night. More than a decade later, her return carried a far happier tone, filled with pride and affection for her roots.
Pride in the Old Pueblo
Despite her national fame, Guthrie remains “Savannah from Tucson.” She delighted in showing her Today show colleagues around the city, pointing out cacti species and telling stories from her desert childhood. “I’m emotional about it,” she admitted. “I’m very proud of Tucson. It’s a stunning and unique place to be from.” Guthrie’s tribute perfectly captured the warmth, culture, and beauty that make Tucson special, reminding viewers across the country why the city holds such a dear place in her heart.
