Al Roker and his family are going through a difficult time with the loss of a loved one. Alice Bell, the cherished first wife of the well-known Today show anchor and mother of their daughter, Courtney Roker Laga, has passed away at the age of 77. Courtney confirmed this sad news on February 11 through social media.
In a moving tribute, Courtney shared, “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.”
To accompany the announcement, Courtney posted a collection of touching images of her mother. Among them were two cherished framed pictures of young Courtney with Alice, followed by heartwarming scenes where Alice is holding Sky, Courtney’s baby daughter. In these latter photographs, Alice was seen with oxygen support, portraying her ongoing strength and love.
Among the many who expressed their sympathies was former Today co-host Tamron Hall, who commented, “Sending our love.”
While the family has chosen not to share details about Alice’s cause of death, Al Roker was notably missing from the Today broadcast on February 11, as reported by E! News.
The marriage of Al and Alice began in 1984 and lasted until 1994, during which they adopted their daughter, Courtney, in 1987. Al has since been blessed with two more children, Leila, aged 26, and Nicholas, aged 22, with his wife, Deborah Roberts.
Although Alice preferred to remain away from the spotlight, her presence was felt when Courtney shared a heartfelt message in 2022, celebrating the influential mother figures in her life.
On Mother’s Day, Courtney took to Instagram to express her gratitude: “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.”
Al Roker, a name synonymous with American television, is renowned for his multifaceted career as a television personality, weather forecaster, journalist, and author. Al’s journey began in Queens, New York, where he was born on August 20, 1954. Initially driven to become a cartoonist, he later diverted his passion towards broadcasting, earning a communications degree from SUNY Oswego. His career took off as a weather anchor in the 1970s, eventually leading him to NBC in 1978.
Roker rose to national fame when he secured the prestigious position of full-time weather anchor on Today in 1996. His vibrant personality, coupled with his thorough weather coverage and audience connection, solidified his status as a beloved fixture of morning television. Beyond forecasting, his versatility shines through in hosting various specials, covering significant events, and conducting prominent interviews.
Al Roker’s accomplishments extend beyond broadcasting. As an author, his repertoire includes memoirs, cookbooks, and fiction, showcasing his storytelling prowess. Additionally, he is recognized for his charitable endeavors and advocacy efforts, embodying a figure of generosity and purpose.
