Al Roker, the beloved “Today” show weatherman, has taken a well-deserved break from the broadcast. Here’s everything you need to know—plus extra insights into Al’s summer adventures and what’s keeping him off the air.
Al’s Summer “Away Forecast”: What We Know
- Al Roker has been on vacation since August 18, 2025, stepping away from the Today Show to celebrate his birthday overseas. His co-hosts even threw him a virtual celebration, complete with a FaceTime sing-along of Elton John’s Philadelphia Freedom.
- He turned 71 on August 20, marking the milestone with his wife Deborah Roberts on a romantic getaway in Italy. The couple’s vacation photos—including birthday cake, champagne, and affectionate captions—flooded social media.
- With Al away from the weather desk, Dylan Dreyer has stepped in to deliver forecasts during the early part of the show, while Savannah Sellers has joined Craig Melvin to co-anchor the third hour. Al’s return date is yet to be confirmed.
A Retrospective on Recent Absences and Work Highlights
Al hasn’t been off the grid all year. Earlier in 2025, he missed episodes while recovering from travel to Alaska and Martha’s Vineyard, following a filmed segment covering summer solstice activities and a nostalgic visit tied to the Jaws anniversary.
He also took time off in late July to support his family and celebrate a personal milestone for his son, Nick.
In June, Al co-hosted a special broadcast from Anchorage, Alaska, alongside Dylan Dreyer and Kaylee Hartung. The segment showcased summer solstice traditions and the natural beauty of the region.
Behind the Man Behind the Map
Here are a few more things that make Al Roker… well, Al:
- Studio Veteran: Roker has been the weekday weather anchor on the Today Show since 1996 and a key part of the third-hour team since 2012.
- Health and Wellness Advocate: Now 71, Al remains committed to fitness, including walking routines and a balanced diet—part of his long-standing wellness journey since undergoing gastric bypass surgery in the early 2000s.
- Still Going Strong: Despite recent changes on the show, including co-host Hoda Kotb’s departure, Al has no plans to retire anytime soon. He’s frequently quoted saying, “You know when you know.”
- A Dash of Culinary Flair: This summer, Al is also stepping into a new role as a guest judge on PBS’s The Great American Recipe, where he’ll bring his energy and food-loving personality to the kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why isn’t Al Roker on the Today Show right now?
He’s currently on vacation in Italy celebrating his 71st birthday with his wife, Deborah Roberts.
2. Who’s filling in for him?
Dylan Dreyer is delivering the weather updates in Al’s absence, and Savannah Sellers is co-hosting the third hour alongside Craig Melvin.
3. Has Al Roker missed other episodes this year?
Yes—he took time off earlier in the summer for travel assignments and to celebrate family milestones. He also filmed remote segments from Alaska and Martha’s Vineyard.
4. What’s next for Al once he returns?
He is expected to return to his regular role on the Today Show and will also appear as a guest judge on The Great American Recipe.
5. Is Al Roker planning to retire?
Not at the moment. Al remains enthusiastic about his work and continues to stay active both on and off camera.
Final Forecast
Al Roker’s summer hiatus is simply a well-earned pause for a broadcasting legend who continues to delight audiences across generations. From adventurous shoots in Alaska to romantic strolls through Italy, Al’s journey this summer has been both personal and professionally rich.
Sources People
