Al Roker Sends Today Co-Hosts Into a Frenzy With Bizarre On-Air Behavior—Viewers Are Just as Stunned!
Al Roker’s latest on-air antics left his Today co-hosts visibly uncomfortable—and viewers couldn’t believe what they were watching! What exactly did he do?
Al Roker’s Cooking Choice Sparks Heated Debate
Al Roker caused quite a stir on Today after a controversial moment from his recent appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert was replayed on air. The veteran weatherman had visited Colbert’s show to promote his cookbook, Al Roker’s Recipes to Live By: Easy, Memory-Making Family Dishes for Every Occasion, but it wasn’t his recipes that had everyone talking—it was one very peculiar cooking choice.
The cookbook, published in October of last year, was a collaboration with his daughter, Courtney Roker Laga, celebrating cherished family recipes. While Colbert praised the book’s overall appeal, there was one detail he simply couldn’t ignore.
Stephen Colbert Calls Out Roker’s ‘Disturbing’ Cooking Choice
In a clip shared on Today, Colbert was seen enthusiastically complimenting the cookbook before voicing his concern over a particular dish.
“I love the book. It’s a beautiful book. I think everyone should buy this book,” Colbert began before shifting gears.
“But here’s my problem—look at this! Shrimp Tikka Masala. The shrimp still have their tails on. What the hell, Al Roker?!”
As Colbert ranted about the unexpected detail, Roker doubled down on his decision, pointing to the book’s cover and saying, “I’ve got tails on these shrimp too.”
Colbert, clearly baffled, continued:
“Am I supposed to roll up my sleeves, put on a poncho, and de-tail the shrimp myself? They’re like toenail clippings!”
“Why would you do that? Such a beautiful book—ruined.”
Roker defended his choice, insisting, “It’s a handle! You pick them up.”
But Colbert wasn’t having it. “You don’t eat shrimp with your hands!” he shot back.
Roker refused to back down, replying, “Sure you do! You should try it, it’s so good.”
Despite his praise for the rest of the cookbook, Colbert ended the discussion with a cutting remark: “You disappoint me, Al Roker.”
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Today Co-Hosts React in Shock
Back in the Today studio, the conversation left co-hosts Laura Jarrett, Willie Geist, and Kaylee Hartung visibly unsettled.
“In a Tikka Masala especially? In all that sauce?!” Jarrett questioned, looking bewildered.
Roker, still amused by the controversy, laughed and argued, “There’s more flavor in the tails! Is it such a big deal? Just take your fork, cut it off, and eat it.”
Willie Geist attempted to defend Roker, saying that since it’s his cookbook, he should be able to prepare dishes however he sees fit.
But Kaylee wasn’t convinced. “I’m sorry,” she interjected, “I have to side with Stephen on this one.”
Fans Weigh In—Team Roker or Team Colbert?
The debate has since taken on a life of its own, with fans divided over whether Roker’s decision was a quirky preference or a culinary misstep.
Should shrimp tails ever be left on in saucy dishes? Or is Colbert right to call out this unusual choice?
One thing’s for sure—Al Roker knows how to keep the conversation going!