Al Roker, 68, "Rushed" Back to Hospital a Day After Release

al roker smiling at the camera on today season 71
Al Roker Hospitalized Again Due to ‘Complications’NBC - Getty Images
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  • Al Roker was reportedly “rushed” back to the hospital within 24 hours of his Thanksgiving release.

  • The Today co-host, 68, recently underwent treatment for blood clots in his leg and lungs.

  • He returned due to complications, but is “in very good care,” Hoda Kotb said on Today.


This year, Thanksgiving was particularly special for Al Roker, who returned home from the hospital after receiving treatment for blood clots in his leg and lungs. The Today co-host, 68, was happy to spend the holiday with family, but was, unfortunately, reportedly “rushed” back to the hospital due to complications within 24 hours, a source told People.

“Al was rushed to the hospital after Thanksgiving,the source said. A witness told Page Six that his condition was “worrying, but once back in the hospital, he improved.”

Roker reportedly had to be transported in an ambulance because his wife, Deborah Roberts, was locked out of her car. “The car malfunctioned. She couldn’t get her phone or any of her belongings,” People’s source said.

On Thanksgiving, Roker missed Macy’s Annual Thanksgiving Day Parade for the first time in 27 years, and sadly, he also had to miss New York City’s Rockefeller Tree lighting, which took place on November 30. After his readmission, Roker gave a health update via his friends and co-workers at Today.

“We all wish that Al could have been with us but due to some complications, he is back in the hospital and he’s in very good care,” Today co-anchor Hoda Kotb said during Thursday morning’s broadcast. “He’s resting and his doctors are keeping a close eye on him.”

Kotb added that she and Craig Melvin FaceTimed Roker during the tree lighting ceremony. “Al and his family want everybody to know how grateful they are for all the love, the support, and the well wishes,” she continued. “He gave us a big thumbs up. So good to see ya, [Al]!”

“Love you, Al,” added Sheinelle Jones. “We’ll see you back here soon, my friend,” Melvin said.

On November 18, Roker revealed to followers on Instagram that he was hospitalized for “a blood clot in my leg which sent some clots into my lungs,” he wrote. “After some medical whack-a-mole, I am so fortunate to be getting terrific medical care and on the way to recovery. Thanks for all the well wishes and prayers and hope to see you soon.”

On Thanksgiving, he shared a video of him walking out of the hospital. “Time to blow this taco stand,” he said. “Woohoo!” He later shared a photo of his family at Thanksgiving dinner.

Here’s to hoping they’re reunited again soon. Get well, Al!

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