In a significant broadcasting development, NBC has announced that veteran commentator Mary Carillo will step in to replace Savannah Guthrie as co-host for the 2026 Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony coverage. This change comes as Guthrie focuses on personal matters, specifically the search for her missing mother, Nancy Guthrie.
NBC's Official Announcement and New Team Formation
The network confirmed that Carillo will join previously announced co-host Terry Gannon in guiding American audiences through the prestigious global event set to take place in Italy. The decision was formalized through an official statement from production president Molly Solomon on February 4.
Solomon expressed confidence in the network's depth of talent, stating, "We are fortunate to have a deep bench of talented commentators who will step in and fill these roles." She specifically highlighted Carillo's extensive experience, calling her "one of the most experienced Olympic commentators ever and a master storyteller."
Mary Carillo's Impressive Background
Carillo brings a remarkable sports pedigree to the position. The New York City native first gained prominence as a professional tennis player in the late 1970s, achieving a career-high world ranking of No. 33 and winning the mixed doubles title at the 1977 French Open alongside John McEnroe.
Following her retirement from professional tennis in 1980 due to knee injuries, Carillo seamlessly transitioned into broadcasting. She has since established herself as a leading voice in sports commentary, covering virtually every major tennis tournament including Wimbledon, the French Open, and the US Open.
Additional Commentary Talent
The broadcasting team will receive additional star power with the inclusion of three-time Olympic gold medalist Shaun White. The legendary snowboarder expressed his enthusiasm about joining the commentary booth, stating, "The Olympics have been such a huge part of my life, and to return in this new role—celebrating the athletes, the energy, and the incredible backdrop of Italy—is truly an honor."
White further elaborated on his perspective, adding, "I know what that moment means when the world is watching, and I can’t wait to help bring that magic to everyone at home."
Personal Circumstances Behind the Change
The personnel shift stems from Guthrie's need to concentrate on family matters. Her 84-year-old mother, Nancy Guthrie, went missing from her Tucson home on January 31. The disappearance was reported after Nancy failed to appear for church the following morning, prompting her children—Annie, Camron, and Savannah—to conduct an hour-long search before contacting authorities.
Family Statement and Investigation Status
Savannah Guthrie addressed the situation publicly on February 2 through a statement to NBC's morning show, expressing gratitude for public support while emphasizing the family's primary concern. "On behalf of our family, I want to thank everyone for the thoughts, prayers, and messages of support," she stated. "Right now, our focus remains on the safe return of our dear Nancy."
The Pima County Sheriff's Office continues to actively investigate the case. Sheriff Chris Nanos provided a February 4 update indicating that while no suspects or persons of interest have been identified, detectives are diligently interviewing anyone who may have had contact with Nancy Guthrie prior to her disappearance.
This broadcasting change represents both a professional transition for NBC's Olympic coverage and a poignant reminder of the personal challenges that can affect even the most public figures. The network appears confident that Carillo's extensive experience, combined with Gannon's established presence and White's Olympic insight, will deliver comprehensive coverage of the 2026 Winter Games while Guthrie attends to urgent family matters.
