Al Roker Explains His Unexpected Mid-Show Departure on Today’s Episode
Al Roker has provided a solid reason for his unexpected mid-show departure from the Today show on Monday, September 28.
“I had to leave the Today show a bit early because I’ve been called for jury duty,” the 72-year-old weatherman shared in a Monday Instagram video. “It’s everyone’s civic duty to fulfill this obligation. I’m really excited about it!”
With a big smile, Roker delivered his message from outside a New York City courthouse, looking dapper in a gray suit and a tan fedora.
“All rise! Time for #juryduty,” he added in his caption.
Fans applauded Roker’s enthusiasm for taking on his civic responsibility in the comments section.
“Just imagine being the defendant and seeing AL ROKER!!!” one user responded, while another commented, “It’s great to see him taking his civic duty seriously!”
Earlier that day, viewers noticed Roker was missing from the weather segment, as Dylan Dreyer filled in. Today host Savannah Guthrie informed the audience that Roker “had to leave a little bit early,” without going into further details.
Craig Melvin later assured everyone that the beloved weatherman would “be back tomorrow.”
In the comments, Roker later updated his fans, stating he had rescheduled his jury duty for a time when work would be less demanding.
“Just to keep you updated, I’ve postponed my jury duty until December when my schedule eases up a bit,” he wrote. “I LOVE jury duty. I am lucky that my company compensates me while I serve, which is not something everyone can say. Civic duty should not feel burdensome.”
This isn’t the first time Today fans have expressed disappointment when Roker was absent from the broadcast. Last year, he took a week-long break from the morning show. In December 2025, Melvin humorously noted that Roker was enjoying “one of his 16 weeks of vacation.” Guthrie added that Roker was away to celebrate his 71st birthday.
“He’s having a fabulous birthday,” Guthrie noted. “We love you, Al, wherever you might be!”
Roker’s wife Deborah Roberts disclosed that they were spending the week in Italy to celebrate his special day.
“To the man who fills my life with love, laughter, and joy, a heartfelt happy birthday,” the 20/20 coanchor wrote in a post honoring Roker. “Your kindness, joy, and generosity are endless blessings. Love you dearly! Please join me in sending @alroker the biggest birthday wishes his heart can hold!”
