Where Is Al Roker This Week? ‘Today’ Fans Notice Missing Weatherman

Al Roker‘s notable absence from the “Today” show since August 18 has left viewers wondering about the whereabouts of their beloved weatherman, as the longtime NBC personality takes time away from his regular broadcasting duties.

The veteran broadcaster, who has been a daytime television staple for nearly three decades, has been missing from his usual spot during the morning show’s coverage, prompting fans to question where America’s favorite forecaster has gone during this extended break from the studio.

Birthday Celebration Takes Priority Over Studio Work

Roker’s absence from “Today” this week stems from his decision to celebrate his 71st birthday on August 20 with a special vacation rather than working from the studio. The milestone birthday provided the perfect opportunity for the dedicated broadcaster to step away from his demanding schedule and enjoy some personal time.

Craig Melvin addressed Roker’s absence during Tuesday’s show by jokingly explaining that Roker was enjoying “one of his 16 weeks of vacation,” according to People. Dylan Dreyer later clarified during Wednesday’s episode that Roker was specifically absent because he was celebrating his birthday.

The Today show team made sure to acknowledge their missing colleague during Wednesday’s broadcast, despite his absence from the studio. “We FaceTimed with Al this morning. He’s having a great birthday,” Savannah Guthrie shared while broadcasting from the 30 Rockefeller Center plaza. “We’re playing ‘Philadelphia Freedom’ [by Elton John] for him. You know Al likes to blast that from his [dressing room]. We love you, Al, wherever you are in the world!”

Guthrie also commemorated the occasion on social media, posting a photo with Roker and the rest of the crew on Instagram with the caption: “happiest birthday to the life of our party – our sunshine ☀️ @alroker.”

Romantic Italian Getaway with Wife Deborah Roberts

Rather than spending his birthday in the familiar confines of the “Today” show studio, Roker chose to celebrate in Italy with his wife, fellow broadcast journalist Deborah Roberts. The couple has been sharing glimpses of their romantic European adventure through social media posts that showcase the country’s stunning August scenery.

“The beauty of Italy in August. Sunny. Quiet. Lovely,” Roberts captioned her Instagram post featuring photos from their trip. The images capture the couple enjoying leisurely moments together, including charming shots of them wearing matching hats while exploring their Italian destination.

Roberts marked her husband’s special day with a heartfelt birthday tribute on social media. “To the man who brings life, love and laughs to my world, a heartfelt happy birthday,” she wrote. “Your kindness, joy and generosity are boundless blessings. Love you so much!”

The birthday celebration included some indulgent moments, with Roberts sharing Instagram Stories showing Roker enjoying what she called “the breakfast of champions: cake and champagne.”

During their Italian adventure, Roberts also pursued her passion for floral arranging by taking a class with a local instructor. “As so many of you know, I have an obsession with beautiful flowers. (Inherited it from my mom). I’ve learned that arranging them is a skill. Not easy,” she explained on Instagram.

During Roker’s absence, the “Today” show has continued with familiar faces filling in for the veteran weatherman. Dreyer has been handling weather updates during the show’s earliest hours, while NBC News’ Savannah Sellers has been co-anchoring the third hour alongside Craig Melvin and Dreyer since Monday.

Roker took over as the show’s forecaster from Willard Scott in 1996. Since then, he has become an integral part of “Today’s” success over his nearly three-decade tenure. The veteran broadcaster has not announced his return date. This leaves fans to tune in to discover when their favorite weatherman will be back at his desk.