Why Al Roker and Hota Kotb left 'Today' show mid-broadcast - Los Angeles Times

NEW YORK, NY — In a troubling development that has left fans deeply concerned, Today show icon Al Roker has been hospitalized once again — marking the second time in just a few months that the beloved weather anchor and television personality has required emergency care.

The news broke late Monday night after co-host Hoda Kotb addressed the issue briefly during the opening of Tuesday’s show, calling it a “difficult moment” for the Today team and revealing that Roker is currently under close observation by medical professionals.

“He’s in good hands, but yes — they’re watching him closely,” Hoda said. “We want him back soon, but more than anything, we want him healthy.”

🚨 WHAT WE KNOW

Sources close to the family confirm that Roker, 70, was admitted to NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital over the weekend after experiencing shortness of breath and abnormal fatigue, prompting an urgent evaluation. Doctors have reportedly run a battery of tests, though the exact cause has not been publicly confirmed.

Insiders say this episode is not related to his previous knee replacement surgery earlier this year, but rather part of a larger health concern that doctors are still assessing.

“There were some alarming signs, and out of caution, they decided not to take any risks,” one medical source familiar with the situation said.

📺 TODAY FAMILY RALLIES

Hoda Kotb and Savannah Guthrie, visibly emotional on air, both expressed their love and support for their longtime friend and colleague, calling Roker the “heart and soul” of the Today team.

“He’s the one who keeps us laughing — and steady — every single day,” Savannah said. “Now it’s our turn to support him.”

Craig Melvin, another co-anchor, posted to Instagram:

“We love you, Big Al. Holding down the fort till you’re back.”

🏥 HEALTH HISTORY AND RECENT STRUGGLES

'TODAY' show's Al Roker returns to hospital after treatment for blood clots

Roker has had several major health battles in recent years. In 2020, he publicly announced his prostate cancer diagnosis, which led to surgery and recovery. He later underwent multiple surgeries for knee and hip issues, returning to work each time with strength and humor.

Earlier in 2025, Roker was briefly hospitalized due to post-operative complications following a total knee replacement. While he made a triumphant return to Today weeks later, friends say he had not fully recovered his energy levels since then.

🧡 FANS FLOOD SOCIAL MEDIA WITH SUPPORT

Since news of Roker’s hospitalization surfaced, fans have taken to social media with the hashtag #GetWellAl, posting messages of encouragement, prayers, and fond memories of the weatherman’s decades on air.

“We grew up with you, Al. We’re praying for you now,” wrote one fan on X (formerly Twitter).

“The mornings aren’t the same without your laugh,” another commented.

🕊️ WHAT’S NEXT?

While no formal statement has been released by Al Roker or his family as of this writing, NBC says it will provide updates “as appropriate” and asked for the public to respect the family’s privacy as they navigate this difficult time.

Doctors are continuing to evaluate his condition and are expected to provide an update later this week.

✍️ FINAL WORD

Al Roker has long been more than just a weatherman — he’s a household name, a trusted voice, and a symbol of resilience. As the Today show moves forward without him for now, one thing is clear: his absence is felt deeply by viewers and colleagues alike.

All of America is pulling for you, Al. 💛