As Hoda Kotb prepares to bid farewell to Today in early 2025, longtime colleague Al Roker is contemplating his own future on the morning show. 

The veteran weatherman, who has been a fixture on Today since 1996, recently opened up about the idea of retirement, 

though he assured fans that he has no immediate plans to step away from the role he loves.

Retirement on the Horizon, But Not Just Yet

Speaking at the Food & Wine Classic in Charleston, Roker, 70, acknowledged that the thought of retirement has crossed his mind,

especially in light of Kotb’s recent announcement. However, he emphasized that he isn’t quite ready to make that decision.

“You know when you know,” he said, reflecting on how each person finds the right moment to step away. 

“That was the kind of the beautiful thing for Hoda. You even look at… Joe Biden. It’s like, everybody has a reason that they decide it’s time to go.”

While Roker is aware that his own time on Today will eventually come to an end, he made it clear that he has no immediate plans to step away. “I don’t feel like that’s my time yet, but who knows? Maybe a year or two. Maybe not. But I’m enjoying it. I love this,” he said, adding, “You don’t get off the train until the last stop.”

Hoda Kotb’s Emotional Departure from Today

Kotb, 60, announced her decision to leave Today in September 2024, an announcement that brought a wave of emotions from both her colleagues and viewers. During her heartfelt on-air message, she explained that the decision stemmed from her desire to spend more time with her two young daughters, Haley and Hope.

“I had my kiddos later in life, and I was thinking that they deserve a bigger piece of my time pie that I have,” Kotb said through tears. “I feel like we only have a finite amount of time. And so, with all that being said, this is the hardest thing in the world.”

While Kotb will no longer be a Today anchor, she reassured fans that she will remain a part of the NBC News family in a different capacity.

Al Roker Supports Kotb’s Decision

Roker, who has been a close friend and colleague of Kotb’s for years, expressed nothing but support for her decision. He admitted that while it is always bittersweet to see a coworker step away, he is ultimately thrilled for her.

“I would feel much worse if she was leaving completely, but she’s just doing something else within our NBC News family,” he shared.

Roker also revealed that he deeply understands Kotb’s reasoning for stepping back, especially as a parent himself. Reflecting on his own experiences, he acknowledged how quickly children grow up.

“I’ve watched my kids grow up. Especially when Courtney was younger, I was in local news, so I was home in the morning with my kids,” he said. “But [Hoda] has got two young daughters, Haley and Hope… Those moments, those kids grow up. I mean, it’s cliché, but it’s true. It’s like you blink.”

What’s Next for Al Roker?

While Roker is not setting a retirement date just yet, his remarks suggest that the idea is becoming more real to him. At 70, he continues to bring his signature enthusiasm and warmth to the show, making it clear that he still enjoys his job. However, his comments indicate that he is aware of the inevitable transition that will come at some point in the future.

For now, Roker remains committed to his role on Today, continuing to entertain and inform audiences. But as Kotb’s departure marks the end of an era, it also serves as a reminder that change is always on the horizon. Fans will undoubtedly cherish every moment Roker remains on their screens, knowing that when the time does come for him to retire, it will be on his own terms.

Follow us to see more useful information, as well as to give us more motivation to update more useful information for you.