Al Roker Missing from Today Show—Dylan Dreyer Steps In Amid Absence

Al Roker’s absence from the first hour of Today on Tuesday raised eyebrows, as fans of the beloved weatherman noticed his unexplained absence. Co-host Dylan Dreyer stepped in to take his place, sharing the screen with Craig Melvin and Savannah Guthrie, as the show continued without its familiar weather anchor.

Dreyer, who usually appears in the later part of the show as a co-host of the 3rd Hour of Today, found herself at the forefront of the program on this occasion, stepping up to fill the gap left by Roker’s absence.

Al Roker’s Absence and Recent Show Announcements

Roker’s absence came just one day after he, Dylan, and Craig excitedly shared news about the upcoming special events for the show. During Monday’s episode, the trio revealed that Today will be taking the show on the road later this month in celebration of Mardi Gras. They announced that The 3rd Hour of Today will be broadcasting live from New Orleans, offering a special experience to fans, filled with the vibrant parades, festivities, and unique culture of the city.

Al Roker excitedly told viewers:
“We are taking the show on the road to New Orleans. On the 3rd Hour of Today on Friday, February 28, we’re going to head down to celebrate Mardi Gras in the Big Easy. We’re going to take in the parades, festivities, sights, sounds, and tastes of the city.”

Dylan added, “We want you guys to join in on our fun,” before explaining that fans could take part in the live audience.

The 3rd Hour Hits the Road: What’s Coming Up in New Orleans

In addition to the Mardi Gras celebrations, Craig Melvin shared some exciting news about the show’s first-ever Today Food event: Taste of New Orleans. This event will feature some of the best chefs in the city cooking up iconic New Orleans dishes for fans and viewers alike. Although tickets for the live audience are already sold out, fans can still get tickets for the Today Food event to be part of the New Orleans culinary celebration.

This move marks a shift in the programming of The 3rd Hour, offering fans the chance to engage with the show outside the traditional studio setting, capturing the spirit of New Orleans while celebrating the city’s famed cuisine and culture.

Recent Changes at Today Show: Hoda Kotb’s Departure

Roker’s absence follows several significant changes in the Today Show lineup. In January, Hoda Kotb stepped down from her role as co-host after 17 years, with Craig Melvin taking over as co-host alongside Savannah Guthrie. This marked a major shift in the show’s format and its anchors.

In the wake of Kotb’s departure, Craig Melvin expressed his excitement about his new role:
“I am beyond excited and grateful… I talked to mom and dad yesterday and I’m thankful they’re still young enough and healthy enough to be able to see this.”

Kotb later expressed her support for Melvin, wishing him and Guthrie the best: “Craig, you are going to be so good. You and Savannah are going to be magic.”

© Nathan Congleton/NBC via Getty I

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for the Today Show Team?

With Al Roker’s absence, Dylan Dreyer‘s rise in prominence within the Today family, and the changes in the show’s host lineup, the dynamics of the morning program are shifting. The upcoming Mardi Gras special from New Orleans will certainly be an important moment for the show, showing how the team’s evolution reflects a growing desire to connect with audiences in fresh, exciting ways.

As Today navigates these changes, viewers can expect to see more adaptations, new segments, and potential shifts in the show’s format, as it continues to engage a diverse and evolving audience.