Television personality and Today show host Al Roker has shared a deeply personal reflection on his lifelong struggle with food addiction, calling it “unlike any other addiction.” In an interview with DailyMail.com, Roker, 70, opened up about his journey toward health, his thoughts on modern weight-loss solutions like Ozempic, and the lessons he’s learned since undergoing gastric bypass surgery in 2002 after his weight reached 340 pounds.
Roker explained that food addiction is uniquely challenging because, unlike other dependencies, “you’ve got to eat.” He emphasized that he doesn’t judge those who turn to weight-loss medications, saying that everyone’s health journey is different. “If this is what works for them, as long as it’s safe and effective—good for you,” he said.
Reflecting on his own transformation, Roker credited learning about portion control as a turning point. He also noted that his experiences traveling abroad—especially observing how the French enjoy rich foods in smaller servings—helped him develop a healthier relationship with eating. His new cookbook, Al Roker’s Recipes to Live By, co-written with his daughter Courtney, celebrates family meals and mindful cooking, combining comfort foods with lighter, portion-conscious recipes.
Roker also discussed the modern pressures that make healthy eating harder, blaming “doom scrolling” and distracted dining. He shared that his wife, journalist Deborah Roberts, enforces a strict “no phones at the table” rule at home — a practice he believes helps families reconnect and enjoy food mindfully.
Despite decades in the public eye and scrutiny about his weight, Roker said he no longer lets online criticism affect him. “If you want to comment, good for you,” he said. “The gratification of clapping back is hard to resist, but at the end of the day, it’s not worth it.”
Roker marked the 20th anniversary of his gastric bypass by posing with his old jeans, a symbolic reminder of how far he’s come. Still, he’s honest about the ongoing nature of recovery. “You have good days and not-so-good days,” he said. “You still have emotions. Everybody’s got to figure out their path.”
As the holidays approach, Roker said he’s most excited to spend time with his growing family — especially his granddaughter, Sky, whom he described as a budding foodie with a “good palette” and a love of savory flavors.
Ultimately, Roker’s story is one of honesty and acceptance. He admits he’s still learning, still striving, and still finding balance — one meal at a time. His message is clear: whether through surgery, lifestyle changes, or medication, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. “Everybody’s journey is their journey,” he said — a reminder that healing, like cooking, takes time, patience, and love.
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