NBC Calls on Mary Carillo to step in for Savanah Gutherie
NBC will open the Winter Olympics tonight under unexpected circumstances, and it’s a Florida voice who will help steady the broadcast. Naples resident Mary Carillo, one of the most respected broadcasters in Olympic history, is stepping in for Today co‑anchor Savannah Guthrie, who remained in New York after her 84‑year‑old mother went missing over the weekend.
Guthrie informed NBC executives that she could not travel to Italy while her family works with authorities in the ongoing search. The network supported her decision immediately, leaving NBC with a major hole on one of the most visible nights of its Olympic coverage.
That’s when Naples’ own Mary Carillo got the call.
A Veteran Broadcaster Ready for the Moment
Carillo, entering her 17th Olympic assignment, is no stranger to high‑pressure situations. The longtime Florida resident has built a reputation for calm, clarity, and storytelling — qualities NBC needs tonight as it navigates a sudden on‑air change.
She will join Terry Gannon on the Opening Ceremony broadcast, anchoring from Italy and ensuring viewers experience a seamless presentation despite the last‑minute shift.
For NBC, Carillo represents stability. For Florida, she represents homegrown excellence on one of the world’s biggest stages.
Guthrie’s Absence Felt Across NBC
Savannah Guthrie, a central figure at 30 Rock and a key part of NBC’s Olympic presence, chose to remain in New York as her family coordinates with investigators searching for her mother. Her Today colleagues have expressed support throughout the week, emphasizing that her focus belongs at home.
NBC said Guthrie will return to programming when her family situation stabilizes.
Florida Steps Into the Spotlight
Carillo’s presence gives the Opening Ceremony a distinctly Florida flavor. Naples residents know her not just as a national broadcaster, but as a neighbor — someone who has long embraced the Southwest Florida community while maintaining a major role in NBC’s sports coverage.
Her ability to step in during a moment of crisis underscores why NBC has trusted her for decades. Tonight, she becomes the face and voice guiding millions of viewers into the start of the Winter Games.
NBC Moves Forward With Confidence
The network said the Opening Ceremony will proceed as planned, with Carillo expected to deliver a steady, polished broadcast. For NBC, it’s a chance to showcase the depth of its talent. For Florida, it’s a moment of pride as one of its own takes center stage on one of the biggest nights in sports television.
