Friday's edition of Today was an emotional one for crew and audiences alike. After a two-month absence due to a health crisis and multiple surgeries, Al Roker finally returned to deliver the weather on the morning show.
Earlier this week, it was announced that Roker would be returning to Today on Friday, January 6th. And when the day finally came, there wasn't a dry eye in the studio.
Having aired live and later uploaded to Today's YouTube channel, co-anchors Savannah Guthrie and Hoda Kotb were misty eyed before Roker came out to great them, the studio, and all of the fans.
To say we have missed you doesn’t even begin to describe it,” Guthrie said. “It is nothing without you here." Kotb continued by saying, "The crew is weepy, the crowd outside has been waiting for you. They’ve been bummed every day we’ve walked out there. They’re like, ‘Where is Al?’"
"I have missed you guys so very much," he said. "You are my second family and it’s just great to be back — and wearing pants!"
He also mentioned that his wife, Deborah Roberts, is "the main reason I'm still here."
After being off the air for a few days, Roker provided an update on his Instagram page about his health issues. He had initially been admitted to hospital for a blood clot in his legs, but ended up having clots in his lungs as well.
It meant missing the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, a first for Roker in 27 years.
Roker had returned home from hospital for Thanksgiving, but ended up back in December. He was finally cleared to leave on December 8th.
While he didn't make an in-studio appearance during the month of December, the cast and crew of Today decided to surprise him with an emotional Christmas carol session.
"It was the most tumultuous, frightening journey we have ever been on," Roberts said, expressing her gratitude to the team of doctors who worked to save Roker's life.
Starting as a substitute weathercaster, Roker became the weather anchor in 1996. He has been a staple on the show for decades.
Roberts, as well as their children, Courtney, Leila, and Nick, spent time with Roker to help speed up his recovery.
