Al Roker made his return to the Today show on Wednesday, just two days after his daughter, Courtney Roker Laga, shared heartbreaking news about their family. 

The longtime NBC weatherman had been absent from the show on Tuesday following the passing of his ex-wife, Alice Bell, at the age of 77.

Despite the personal loss, the 70-year-old journalist resumed his duties on Today, choosing not to address Alice’s passing on-air. 

Instead, he kept the focus on his work, later taking to Instagram to share a cheerful moment with Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts.

Al Roker Remains Private About His Loss

While Roker refrained from mentioning his ex-wife’s death during Wednesday’s broadcast, his return was met with warmth from fans and colleagues. 

Many viewers expressed their support, knowing the difficult time he was navigating.

Later that day, Al posted a smiling selfie with Jalen Hurts, celebrating the football star’s Super Bowl victory against the Kansas City Chiefs on February 9. “What a thrill meeting #SuperBowl champion #MVP @philadelphiaeagles quarterback @jalenhurts this morning at the @todayshow,” he captioned the image.

Although the post made no reference to his recent loss, Al’s colleagues at NBC and many fans sent their condolences to Courtney, who had publicly shared the news of her mother’s passing on February 10.

Courtney Roker Laga Pays Tribute to Her Mother

Courtney, Al and Alice’s only daughter, took to Instagram to share her grief, posting a series of touching family photos. In her emotional tribute, she wrote:

“She was my mother, my heart, and the most loving grandmother to Sky. I was with her for her last breath, and I will carry her love with me always.”

The post included several photos of Alice, some of which showed her with a breathing tube as she played with her granddaughter, Sky. While Courtney did not disclose the cause of her mother’s death, the images suggested that Alice had been battling health challenges in her final days.

Many of Al’s Today show colleagues offered their condolences in the comments section. Former Today co-host Tamron Hall wrote, “Sending our love,” while contributor Joy Bauer added, “So much love.”

Alice Bell and Al Roker’s Relationship

Alice Bell and Al Roker first crossed paths while working at WNBC in New York. Alice was a producer for Live at Five, and Al was making a name for himself as a weatherman. The two married in 1984 and later adopted Courtney in 1987.

Despite their initial connection, their marriage eventually came to an end. They finalized their divorce in 1995, five years after adopting their daughter. While Alice remained relatively private about her personal life after their separation, Al moved on and later married ABC journalist Deborah Roberts.

A Blended Family and a Lasting Bond

After his divorce from Alice, Al found love again with Deborah Roberts, whom he married in 1995. Together, they built a blended family with their two children, Leila and Nick, alongside Courtney.

Deborah has spoken openly about how her relationship with Courtney evolved over the years. On Mother’s Day, she shared a heartfelt tribute to her stepdaughter, reflecting on their early days together:

“Many, many years ago, I met this little beauty. We weren’t sure what to make of each other. But soon, a connection was made which deepened into a warm and loving relationship.”

Courtney reciprocated that love, honoring Deborah in a 2022 Mother’s Day post. She wrote:

“Happy Mother’s Day to the three most important women in my life—my mom Alice, my stepmother Deborah, and my mother-in-law Barbara.”

A New Chapter: Courtney Becomes a Mother

Courtney has carried on her mother’s legacy in her own family. In 2023, she and her husband, Wesley Laga, welcomed their first child, Sky, making Al and Alice grandparents.

Although Alice is no longer here, Courtney’s words and cherished memories reflect the deep love she had for her mother. As Al Roker continues to balance his professional and personal life, there’s no doubt that he and his family will hold Alice’s memory close to their hearts.

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