How Old Is Al Roker? Al Roker is a household name and one of the most beloved figures in television, particularly known for his role as the weather anchor on NBC’s “Today” show. With his engaging personality, warmth, and wealth of experience in the industry, Roker has become an iconic part of American morning television. But just how old is Al Roker, and how did he build his incredible career? In this article, we will delve into his age, background, and the major milestones that have defined his life and work.
Al Roker’s Birthdate and Age
Al Roker was born on August 20, 1954, in New York City, which makes him 70 years old as of 2025. Roker’s longevity in the television industry, coupled with his dynamic career, has made him a recognizable figure in American broadcasting. With over four decades in the public eye, Roker’s age is often overshadowed by his boundless energy and enthusiasm for his work, which continues to make him a fan favorite.
Early Life and Education
Roker’s early life was shaped by his upbringing in the Bronx, New York. He attended Xavier High School, a private Jesuit institution in Manhattan, where he began to show an interest in media and communications. This interest continued to grow as he pursued his education at State University of New York at Oswego, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Communications. Roker’s time at SUNY Oswego allowed him to hone his communication skills, setting the foundation for his future career in broadcasting.
While in college, Al Roker worked as a part-time meteorologist for the SUNY Oswego radio station, which exposed him to the world of weather forecasting. This early experience, along with his passion for science and broadcasting, helped set the stage for his future career as one of the country’s top weather experts.
The Start of a Broadcasting Career
After graduating in 1976, Roker started his professional career in broadcasting, working at various local stations across the United States. His first job in television was as a weatherman for WTTG in Washington, D.C., where he worked for a short period before moving on to WNBC in New York City. It was at WNBC that Roker’s career began to gain significant traction, as he became the station’s chief meteorologist in 1983.
Roker’s rise to prominence was aided by his ability to make weather reports both informative and entertaining, helping to set him apart from other meteorologists at the time. His rapport with viewers and his commitment to making complex meteorological concepts accessible contributed to his growing popularity.
Al Roker Joins the “Today” Show
In 1996, Roker’s big break came when he was invited to join the cast of the “Today” Show on NBC. He was initially brought in as a weather anchor for the popular morning program, and it was here that his career truly skyrocketed. His charm, humor, and friendly demeanor made him an instant hit with viewers, and he quickly became one of the most recognizable faces on American television.
As the weather anchor for “Today,” Roker became known for his informative yet often lighthearted approach to weather reporting. His signature catchphrase, “Let’s take a look at the weather,” along with his fun interactions with co-anchors and guests, helped solidify his place as a fan favorite. In addition to his weather segments, Roker often participated in other aspects of the show, contributing to lifestyle, entertainment, and human interest segments.
Major Achievements and Milestones
Al Roker’s career is defined by numerous accomplishments and milestones that have solidified his status as a television icon. Some of the major achievements in his career include:
- Guinness World Record: In 2014, Roker set a Guinness World Record for the longest continuous live weather broadcast. He reported for an impressive 34 hours and 30 minutes, surpassing the previous record. This feat was a testament to Roker’s dedication to his craft and his ability to captivate an audience for an extended period of time.
- Author: In addition to his work as a meteorologist and television personality, Al Roker is also a published author. He has written several books, including a memoir titled “Never Goin’ Back: Winning the Weight-Loss Battle For Good” and a children’s book called “The Storm of the Century”. His books reflect his personal experiences, particularly his journey to lose weight and his lifelong passion for weather.
- Philanthropy and Advocacy: Roker has also been involved in various charitable endeavors throughout his career. He is an advocate for diabetes awareness, having been diagnosed with the condition himself, and he actively supports organizations like Feeding America and The Roker Foundation, which aims to provide clean drinking water to underserved communities.
- Television Awards: Over the years, Roker has received numerous accolades for his work in television. He has earned Daytime Emmy Awards for his work on “Today,” and his long-running tenure on the show continues to be a significant part of his legacy.
Personal Life
Al Roker has always been open about his personal life, allowing his fans to connect with him on a deeper level. He is married to Deborah Roberts, a correspondent for ABC News, and the couple shares two children, Leila and Nicholas. Roker also has two children from a previous marriage to Alice Bell. He has often shared heartfelt moments with his family on social media, and his transparency about his personal life has endeared him to his fans.
Roker’s journey to becoming a media figure has not been without its challenges. In 2020, he underwent a successful prostate cancer surgery, a battle he openly discussed with his audience. His bravery in sharing his health journey was appreciated by many, and his story inspired others who were facing similar health challenges.
Al Roker’s Lasting Legacy
At 70 years old, Al Roker has accomplished more in his career than many could ever imagine. From his early days as a local weather reporter to his current role as a staple of NBC’s “Today” show, Roker has become an institution in American media. His blend of professionalism, humor, and heart has made him not only a trusted meteorologist but also a cherished figure in the hearts of viewers across the world.
As he continues his work on the “Today” show and beyond, there’s no doubt that Al Roker’s influence on the world of broadcast journalism will continue to be felt for many years to come. Whether delivering weather updates, participating in human-interest stories, or sharing moments from his personal life, Roker’s enduring appeal proves that age is no barrier to success.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Al Roker, born on August 20, 1954, is currently 70 years old as of 2025. With over four decades of experience in the broadcasting world, Roker has built a legacy that spans across weather reporting, television hosting, writing, and philanthropy. His ability to entertain, inform, and engage viewers has made him an irreplaceable figure in the world of television, and his lasting impact on the industry is undeniable. Whether you’re tuning in for the weather or simply enjoying his personality, Al Roker remains one of the most trusted and beloved figures in American television.