Al Roker is a beloved meteorologist, but the Today Show staple was almost the victim of a racist set intruder. So, when did this happen, and how did he avoid getting harmed? Keep reading for all of the terrifying details.
Al Roker In Harm’s Way
The world can be a scary place, and even the nicest people can become potential victims. Al Roker is a fan favorite, but he was almost the victim of a racial hate crime. An alleged male intruder attempted to come onto the Today Show set on Thursday, July 16th, at 30 Rockefeller Plaza. The goal was to get to the famed meteorologist, but it is unclear why or what the motive was. This male told security at the Today Show that they were there to see Al. Somehow, they got by security but ended up face to face with Craig Melvin, Al’s co-anchor.
An insider claimed that once they got to Craig, they proceeded to shout racial slurs at him. At nearly 930 am, the NYPD shared:
“it was reported to officers that there was a disorderly person inside 30 Rockefeller Center, within the confines of the Midtown North Precinct. Officers responded and placed an unidentified individual into custody. There were no injuries reported. The investigation remains ongoing.”
What’s amazing is that Craig Melvin and Al Roker went on with their show as if nothing had happened. Viewers were none the wiser and had no idea that an intruder had just hurled horrific words at Craig. The man has since been arrested for what he did, but again, it is unclear what he wanted with Al.
Immediately, fans of the show and of Al felt horrible for what happened. They stated that the world is such a scary place and this just reiterated how bad it can be:
- I thank God that nothing happened to anyone. We are living in very, crazy and dangerous times. All people on TV should have proper security even in the studios. Crazy people do not understand that they are only doing their jobs. We should put God first and have proper security all over.
A Thankful Day
Today Show fans were very thankful that Al Roker and Craig Melvin were spared. This could have gone very differently, but luckily, everyone is safe. What is astounding is that security is supposed to be beefed up given Savannah Guthrie’s situation. Her mother was abducted back in February, so it was scary for her to come back to the show. However, they had to increase all measures for her safety as well as others. Yet, fans chimed in with gratitude, as this incident could have been different:
- Gee, some security! Maybe go back to training.
- Some one in security needs to lose their job after that one.
- Good gravy – what is this world coming to! It is just plain scary… so much hate out there… so sad 😞
- Plaster his name and face out there so we can see who did this.
Can you believe that someone targeted Al Roker? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
Amanda has been a professional freelance writer for over a decade, holding both a BA and an MA. Her passions include animals, iced coffee, gnomes, summer, music, and ‘Vanderpump Rules’.
