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Al Roker is set to return to the Today show on Friday, which will mark his first in-studio appearance since blood clots in his leg and lungs sent him to the hospital in November, per People.
On Tuesday (January 2), Today anchors Savannah Guthrie, Hoda Kotb, and Craig Melvin announced Roker's return during an episode of the morning show.
"We have some great news to share this morning: Al is coming back to the show," Guthrie said, noting the show " is not the same" without Roker.
"Everyone's like, 'When when?' Well, we have our date," Kotb added. "He'll be here Friday. He'll be right here in Studio 1A . This is his place. He'll be in his seat, right where he belongs. I cannot wait for that."
Roker last appeared on the Today show on November 4 due to his health issues. He was hospitalized, released weeks later, and then sent back to the hospital after Thanksgiving. During his absence, the longtime weather anchor missed the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade for the first time in 27 years and the annual Christmas Tree Lighting at Rockefeller Center.
Roker has been keeping his fans updated on his health via Instagram, noting on December 8 that he was released from the hospital once again and on the road to recovery.
"It's been a tough slog, I'm not going to deny this," Roker said last month. "This has been the hardest one yet — and you know, I've had my fair share of surgeries. But it gives you a profound sense of gratitude for this outpouring of prayers and thanks. I'm a very fortunate person."
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