It was the first time Al Rooker appeared on the “Today” show in more than a month while dealing with health issues.
WASHINGTON — Al Roker appeared Monday. On the “Today” show to give fans an update on how he’s doing after four weeks in the hospital.
“It’s good to stay at home” The “Today” co-anchor and meteorologist shared from his kitchen..
“Listen, it’s been a tough slog. I’m not going to deny that. It’s been the hardest yet and you know, I’ve had my share of surgeries. But it makes you tough for this outdoor adventure. There’s a deep sense of gratitude. With prayers and thanks, I’m a very lucky person,” Rooker stated.
Rooker was first hospitalized last month with blood clots in his leg and lung. He was initially released on Thanksgiving, but reportedly was taken back to the hospital a day later due to “complications.” He returned home last Thursday afternoon.
Health issues forced Rooker to miss his first Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade in 27 years.
During Monday’s check-in, Rooker thanked his co-hosts for stopping by the hospital and joked that Hoda Kotb “was actually named an honorary doctor I think, she’ll be right here.”
When will Al Rooker return to the ‘Today’ show?
Asked what the real doctors were saying about when he could potentially return in “Today,” Rooker explained that he had to spend four weeks in the hospital to work on getting his strength back first. Required.
“I feel good, I feel strong and every day I feel a little bit better,” Rooker said. “I made dinner last night and I feel like there’s going to be a bit of a slog, but there’s a lot of people with a lot to do, with very few resources.”
Rooker also thanked his doctors at New York Presbyterian and received some compliments for his new mustache.
Back in 2020, Rooker was off the air for a few weeks after undergoing surgery to remove his prostate. Rooker revealed at the time that he had been diagnosed with prostate cancer but had caught it early. Rooker explained at the time that he decided to share his diagnosis publicly to encourage others — especially black men. Which studies indicate are at higher risk. – To make sure they see a doctor and get proper check-ups to prevent cancer which is very treatable if detected early.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.