If you’re a regular viewer of NBC’s The Today Show, you may have noticed that one of the anchors has been absent from the show as of late. We were all wondering where Al Roker had been the past few weeks, but we finally found out this morning.
Roker last appeared on The Today Show on Friday, November 4, 2022. He was absent the following Monday and hasn’t been seen since then. The show didn’t mention where he was or why he was missing, and neither did Roker.
Fans who follow Rocker on Instagram noticed he was still posting, even though he wasn’t appearing on air. For example, he posted a picture of the moon on the 5th, and again on Veterans Day. On the 14th, a day after sharing a video of him and Dylan Dreier talking about climate change, he posted again.
In these Instagram posts, Rocker doesn’t mention why he’s away from The Today Show, but concerned fans are taking to the comments section to inquire about his well-being. One person said, “Okay Al, looks like everyone is worried about you. Hope to see you back on the air next week. Have an amazing weekend!”
Another wrote: “I miss you. Where were you?”
One follower said: “What’s going on Al? Hoda said you are not feeling well.’
One devoted follower pleaded, “Where are you Al?” Please let us know. Pleeeez!!!”
Many Rocker fans have been wondering where he is, and today they finally got an answer. He revealed that he has been taking a break from The Today Show for the past two weeks. On Instagram, he posted a picture of flowers and a coffee mug with the words “NBC News Weather.”
Rocker wrote in the caption, “Last week I was admitted to the hospital with a blood clot in my leg that sent a clot into my lung. “After a few medical strokes with a mole, I am very happy to be receiving excellent medical care and on the road to recovery.” Rocker then thanked his fans “for all the good wishes and prayers.”
The Today Show hosts mentioned Rocker’s hospitalization shortly after he announced it on Instagram. Each of them wished him well and explained that they had been in contact with him during his absence.
Savannah Guthrie said Rocker was “in good spirits.” She continued, “We all talked to him.”
Dreyer gave an example that showed he was doing well. She stated: “Not that we need to tell you how amazing Al is, the first time I called him he immediately said, ‘Hey Dilly-Dill!’ How are the boys?”That’s classic Al.”
Carson Daly said: “We need him back. “He inspires me every day.”