Wordle Is Becoming A TV Show, With Savannah Guthrie Hosting
The beloved mobile puzzle phenomenon Wordle is making a high-profile transition from your daily screen to the small screen. In a move that signals the game’s massive cultural penetration, it will soon become a primetime television series, with the popular Today Show broadcaster Savannah Guthrie confirmed to serve as the host.
The show is set to premiere in prime time on NBC beginning in 2027. This announcement confirms that the simple, addictive word game is expanding its reach beyond digital platforms into the competitive world of broadcast television.
Production Details and Key Personnel
According to a report by The New York Times—the parent company that acquired Wordle in 2022—production will take place in Manchester, England. This location choice adds an international flavor to the production, potentially bringing fresh visual dynamics to the familiar gameplay mechanics.
Key details about the upcoming series include:
- Format: The half-hour show will feature participants playing the game together in person, competing for a cash prize.
- Visual Identity: The series is expected to retain the game’s iconic typeface and color scheme, ensuring instant brand recognition for viewers.
- Executive Production: As previously rumored, Jimmy Fallon will serve as an executive producer on the project, leveraging his extensive experience in late-night entertainment.
Delayed Start and Host’s Personal Challenges
While the concept has been in development, production on the Wordle TV show faced significant delays. Filming was originally scheduled to begin earlier this year but was postponed following a personal tragedy for host Savannah Guthrie.
In February, Guthrie’s 84-year-old mother, Nancy, disappeared. The situation deeply affected the production timeline as Guthrie stepped away from her duties to handle the crisis. She returned to her hosting responsibilities in April, but her mother remains missing.
A New Chapter for a Digital Icon
The adaptation of Wordle into a live-action primetime show represents a significant milestone for the game. Originally created by developer Josh Wardle as a gift for his partner, it has become a global daily ritual for millions.
By partnering with NBC and The New York Times, the franchise is leveraging its strong brand identity to compete in the television landscape. With Savannah Guthrie at the helm and Jimmy Fallon behind the scenes, the show aims to capture the communal excitement of solving the daily puzzle while offering a fresh, high-stakes competitive format for television audiences.
