Al Roker, the longtime Today show weatherman, is stepping into an exciting new role — that of animated dad and science educator. His latest project, Weather Hunters, which premiered in September 2025 on PBS KIDS, is designed to teach children about weather, science, and curiosity, all while providing fun, story-driven adventures.
The show follows 8-year-old Lily Hunter, a bright and inquisitive young girl fascinated by storms, rainbows, wind, and more. Together with her family, she explores the science behind these phenomena, learning about how weather works and how it affects the world around her. Al Roker voices Lily’s father, Al Hunter, a character modeled after himself, bringing his signature charm and humor to the animated family.
For Roker, Weather Hunters is more than a cartoon — it’s a personal passion project. He has long been a champion of education and environmental awareness, and this series allows him to combine those values with storytelling. Inspired in part by his own granddaughter, Sky, Roker said the goal of the show is to teach children that curiosity and observation can turn even complex topics into something fun and approachable. “Once you understand how something works, you’re less afraid of it,” he explained in a recent interview.
The series also features a talented voice cast, including Holly Robinson Peete as Lily’s mother, Sheryl Lee Ralph as the neighbor Ms. Joyce, and LeVar Burton as Lily’s grandfather. The intergenerational cast gives the show heart and depth, while the theme song, performed by Yvette Nicole Brown, adds a playful and engaging tone. The combination of strong voices and thoughtful storytelling makes Weather Hunters entertaining for children while reassuring for parents who want their kids to learn valuable lessons.
Each 22-minute episode is designed to be educational yet highly engaging. Through storytelling, humor, and relatable characters, children learn about thunderstorms, wind patterns, rainfall, and other weather phenomena. Beyond the episodes, PBS KIDS is launching a companion digital platform, including interactive games where kids can create their own weather reports. This interactive component reinforces STEM concepts and encourages hands-on exploration of scientific principles.
Fans and parents alike have praised the show for making weather science accessible, entertaining, and inspiring. Unlike traditional educational programs, Weather Hunters approaches learning through adventure and imagination. Children aren’t just passive viewers — they become little weather detectives alongside Lily, experimenting, observing, and asking questions that build curiosity and critical thinking skills.
Al Roker has described the project as a culmination of his career in meteorology, broadcasting, and education. He hopes to spark curiosity in children and encourage them to pursue knowledge about the world around them, particularly in science and the environment. By combining real-world scientific principles with fun storytelling, the show demonstrates that learning can be both informative and enjoyable.
In a world where climate awareness and scientific literacy are increasingly important, Weather Hunters arrives as a timely and valuable resource for young viewers. Through engaging narratives, relatable characters, and interactive learning opportunities, the series shows that understanding the weather doesn’t have to be intimidating — it can be an adventure waiting to happen.
With Weather Hunters, Al Roker proves that even after decades in the public eye, he continues to innovate, educate, and inspire. His transition from on-air meteorologist to animated science educator highlights his dedication to teaching the next generation about curiosity, science, and the wonders of our planet.
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