Yellow Ribbons Spark Controversy Amid Missing Anchor Search

The search for Nancy Guthrie continues into its fourth week, with her family expressing steadfast hope despite the emotionally taxing situation. To show solidarity, many of her colleagues at NBC News have been wearing yellow ribbons on air.

This symbolic gesture aligns with the yellow flowers and ribbons placed by locals outside Guthrie's home near Tucson, Arizona, representing community support. Prominent figures like Hoda Kotb, Carson Daly, Al Roker, Sheinelle Jones, and Craig Melvin have donned the ribbons on NBC's Today show.

However, the visual display of support has encountered unexpected criticism. Some viewers have noticed that evening news anchors, such as Tom Llamas on NBC Nightly News, have not worn the yellow ribbon, leading to accusations of a lack of support. This selective participation has reportedly caused internal discussion.

An anonymous insider noted that while the ribbon-wearing began as a beautiful tribute, it has shifted into something viewers scrutinize. The absence of a ribbon on a high-profile anchor like Llamas has been particularly conspicuous, with the insider suggesting these absences become more prominent than the symbol itself.

Despite the scrutiny, one producer suggested that NBC News executives have not mandated the wearing of ribbons, implying that viewers might be overanalyzing personal wardrobe decisions. It was also noted that Senior White House Correspondent Gabe Gutierrez has worn a yellow ribbon on NBC Nightly News.

The primary focus remains on Nancy Guthrie's safe return and when Savannah Guthrie might resume her television duties.