5 Key Facts About Al Roker's Health Status: Is The 'Today' Show Anchor Still Battling Cancer In 2025?

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The question of "does Al Roker have cancer" continues to circulate, reflecting the public's deep concern for the beloved weatherman's well-being following his highly publicised health scares. As of late 2025, the good news is that the 'Today' show anchor is not currently battling cancer, having successfully achieved remission after his 2020 prostate cancer diagnosis and subsequent surgery. His incredible resilience and openness about his health journey have turned him into a powerful advocate for preventive medicine, particularly for men's health.

This comprehensive update, current as of December 2025, dives into the specifics of Al Roker's cancer diagnosis, his successful treatment, and the other significant, non-cancer-related health challenges he has overcome. The most important takeaway for fans is his current "cancer-free" status, which he diligently maintains through regular check-ups and a commitment to a healthy lifestyle.

Al Roker's Complete Biography and Health Timeline

Albert Lincoln Roker Jr. is one of the most recognisable and enduring figures in American television. Known for his jovial on-screen presence and expertise in meteorology, his life has been marked by professional success and significant, public health battles.

  • Full Name: Albert Lincoln Roker Jr.
  • Date of Birth: August 20, 1954
  • Place of Birth: Queens, New York, U.S.
  • Spouse: Deborah Roberts (m. 1995)
  • Children: Courtney Roker, Leila Roker, Nicholas Roker
  • Notable Role: Weather and feature anchor on NBC News' Today, and co-host of the 3rd Hour of Today.
  • Career Start: Joined NBC's Today in January 1996.
  • Major Health Events:
    • 2002: Underwent gastric bypass surgery, leading to a significant weight loss journey.
    • 2018: Underwent a second knee replacement surgery.
    • November 2020: Diagnosed with aggressive prostate cancer (Gleason Score 7+).
    • November 2020: Underwent a five-hour radical prostatectomy.
    • May 2021: Declared cancer-free/in remission.
    • Late 2022: Hospitalised for blood clots in his legs and lungs (pulmonary embolism), which he called his "hardest yet" health challenge.
    • 2023-2025: Continues his recovery and maintains a cancer-free status with regular monitoring.

The Truth About Al Roker's Cancer Status Today

The core of the public's curiosity revolves around the possibility of a recurrence since his initial diagnosis. The definitive answer, according to the latest reports in late 2025, is a resounding no: Al Roker is currently cancer-free and in remission.

A 2020 Diagnosis That Changed Everything

In November 2020, Al Roker shocked viewers when he announced his diagnosis with prostate cancer on the Today show. The cancer was caught early during a routine physical, specifically through an elevated Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test. This early detection was crucial, as his form was classified as "aggressive," with a Gleason Score of 7+.

Roker's decision to go public immediately turned his personal health crisis into a national awareness campaign. He highlighted the disproportionate risk for Black men, who are 1.7 times more likely to be diagnosed and twice as likely to die from the disease.

Successful Treatment and Monitoring

Just days after his announcement, Roker underwent a five-hour surgical procedure called a radical prostatectomy, where his prostate gland was removed. The surgery was a success, and by May 2021, he was officially declared cancer-free.

His journey didn't end there, however. Maintaining a cancer-free status requires vigilance. Roker has been diligent about his follow-up care, which includes getting his PSA levels monitored every six months. This ongoing commitment to preventive health care is what keeps him in remission today and serves as a powerful message to his audience.

Beyond Cancer: Al Roker's Other Major Health Battles

While his prostate cancer battle is the most recent, it is not the only significant health challenge Roker has faced. His resilience has been tested multiple times, demonstrating a remarkable ability to bounce back.

The Life-Changing Gastric Bypass

In 2002, Roker made the decision to undergo gastric bypass surgery. At his heaviest, he weighed over 340 pounds. The surgery was a catalyst for a complete lifestyle overhaul, resulting in a dramatic and sustained weight loss. His openness about this procedure, and the subsequent challenges of maintaining the weight loss, has inspired millions who struggle with obesity and metabolic health.

The 'Hardest Yet': Blood Clots and Hospitalisation

In late 2022, Roker faced what he described as his "hardest yet" health ordeal. He was hospitalised for several weeks with blood clots in his legs that had travelled to his lungs, a condition known as a pulmonary embolism. This serious, non-cancer-related illness required intensive care and a lengthy recovery period, keeping him off the air for an extended time.

This health scare was a stark reminder that his health journey is ongoing and involves managing multiple factors, not just cancer recurrence. His subsequent recovery and return to the Today show desk were met with an outpouring of support from fans and colleagues, cementing his status as a symbol of perseverance.

The Legacy of Al Roker's Health Advocacy

Al Roker’s greatest contribution, beyond his decades of weather reporting, may be his role as a health advocate. By sharing the intimate details of his prostate cancer, he has demystified the disease and pushed for earlier and more frequent screening.

His story is a powerful testament to the fact that early detection saves lives. He was asymptomatic when his cancer was found, proving that a routine PSA test at an annual physical can be a life-saving measure. For men, especially Black men over the age of 40, his message is clear: talk to your doctor about prostate cancer screening.

In 2025, Al Roker continues to thrive, a testament to his resilience and the success of modern medical intervention. His commitment to his health, from managing his weight to diligently monitoring his cancer-free status, ensures that the beloved 'Today' anchor remains a fixture on morning television for years to come. Fans can rest assured that he is currently healthy, happy, and continuing his mission to inform and inspire.

does al roker have cancer
does al roker have cancer

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