Al Roker didn’t hold back on Today after his co-stars poked fun at his age during a segment about the 1963 classic It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World. As the jokes about the film’s age kept coming, Roker fired back, calling his co-hosts “ageists” and demanding respect for the movie’s status as a classic. His playful outburst sparked laughter, but also showed that even the Today star isn’t afraid to call out his colleagues when the teasing goes too far. What’s next for Roker and his bantering crew? Keep an eye on this ongoing Today drama!

Al Roker Calls Out Today Co-Hosts After “Annoying” Jabs in Classic Movie Discussion

Al Roker, the beloved Today show weatherman, is no stranger to playful banter with his co-stars, but during a recent segment on Pop Start, the 70-year-old TV veteran wasn’t having any of the age-related jokes directed at him. The moment unfolded when the team discussed Eddie Murphy’s recent comments on The Jennifer Hudson Show, where he revealed plans to remake the 1963 classic It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World. What started as a lighthearted conversation soon escalated into a playful clash as Roker fired back at his co-hosts for their “ageist” remarks.

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The Jabs That Sparked the Back-and-Forth

The segment, which had Today panelists Savannah Guthrie, Craig Melvin, and Jenna Bush Hager chatting about Murphy’s potential remake of the iconic movie, quickly turned to Roker when Carson Daly jokingly mentioned, “Uncle Al loves this movie.” The teasing continued as Melvin asked if Roker had actually seen the film in theaters, to which Roker confirmed, adding that the movie even featured an intermission, which prompted Savannah to laugh and sarcastically ask, “Tell us about the olden times.”

Things took a sharper turn when Jenna jumped in, jokingly asking, “Was Shirley Temple in it?” and quipping, “What’s going on here?” Roker, who has been a staple on Today since 1996, wasn’t about to let the jokes slide any longer. He quickly shot back with a humorous yet pointed comment: “Just because you may not have seen it, doesn’t mean it’s not a classic.” Roker, clearly frustrated with the age-related jabs, added, “You ageists are getting on my nerves.”

Roker Defends the Movie’s Legacy

Amazon.com: It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World [Blu-ray] : Spencer Tracy,  Milton Berle, Sid Caesar, Buddy Hackett, Ethel Merman, Stanley Kramer:  Movies & TV

It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World—which originally ran for 192 minutes, with some cuts even longer—was a major box-office hit in 1963, ranking as the third-highest-grossing film of that year. The film is a madcap comedy about a group of motorists racing to find hidden treasure after hearing a dying man’s clue. The ensemble cast features big names like Spencer Tracy, Milton Berle, Sid Caesar, Ethel Merman, and Mickey Rooney. Roker, who was defending the movie’s legacy, was determined to make sure his co-stars didn’t dismiss its importance.

“Anybody who was anybody in comedy in 1963 had a cameo in it,” Roker pointed out, referencing the star-studded cast and the film’s historical significance. Despite the comedic comments from his colleagues, Roker’s defense of the film highlighted its lasting influence, and he wasn’t about to let his co-stars diminish its cultural relevance.

The Playful Clash and Roker’s Resilience

Despite the playful teasing from his co-stars, Roker’s comment about the “ageists” stirred up some laughs, but also put his foot down on the humor that poked fun at his age. His sharp response showcased a blend of his trademark humor and resilience. Roker has long been a beloved figure on Today, and while he’s no stranger to the occasional joke or jibe, his ability to stand his ground—while keeping things lighthearted—remains one of the reasons fans love him.

This exchange between Roker and his co-hosts reflects the playful dynamic that makes Today so entertaining, but it also reinforces Roker’s role as a TV veteran who won’t let the typical media ageism slide. His spirited defense of the movie, coupled with his own history in entertainment, serves as a reminder that true classics don’t fade, regardless of the era they come from.

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A Legacy of Laughter and Defiance

Al Roker’s position in the world of television has long been established—he’s a pioneer, a steady presence, and someone who isn’t afraid to call out the jokes at his own expense. Whether he’s in front of the camera or responding to playful banter from his colleagues, Roker has proven time and again that he’s more than just a weather anchor. He’s a media fixture who can roll with the punches, but who will also stand firm when it matters most.

As Today continues to keep audiences engaged with its lively segments and candid moments, it’s clear that Roker’s presence is indispensable. The good-natured back-and-forth with his co-hosts only adds to the charm and authenticity that makes Today a beloved staple in morning television.

Conclusion: Al Roker’s Unwavering Charisma

Al Roker’s quick-witted comeback to his Today co-hosts proves that while he may take the occasional playful jab, he remains a force to be reckoned with. His unshakable confidence, mixed with his ability to balance humor and professionalism, ensures that he remains a key figure on the Today show—showing that even after decades in the business, Roker isn’t afraid to call out ageism and defend what’s rightfully due respect.