Al Roker Leaves "Today" Show Early for Jury Duty

Al Roker stepped away from the Monday edition of the "Today" show after receiving a summons for jury duty, the weatherman said in an Instagram video filmed outside a New York City courthouse. "Well, got out of the ‘Today’ show early because I’ve got jury duty," he explained, adding that serving on a jury is "everybody’s civic duty."

Roker, 72, had delivered the weather forecast several times before leaving Studio 1 at Rockefeller Center. Co-anchor Savannah Guthrie informed viewers that Dylan Dreyer would take over his duties, and Dreyer confirmed the on-air switch. Roker missed the third hour of the program, which he co-hosts with Dreyer and Craig Melvin; sports reporter Kaylee Hartung filled in for him. "Al had to step out for just a little bit. He’ll be back tomorrow," Melvin said.

Earlier that morning, Roker posted a gym video on social media, showing himself on a treadmill and lifting weights. He thanked his trainer, Jose Garcia, and encouraged followers to start the week positively.