when longtime weatherman Al Roker was noticeably absent from the first hour of the program.

His co-host, Dylan Dreyer, stepped in to fill the gap, joining fellow hosts Craig Melvin and Savannah Guthrie for a change in the usual lineup.

The absence of Roker, who typically anchors the weather segment, was particularly noticeable since he is a beloved figure on the show.

Dylan Dreyer, typically known for co-hosting the third hour of *Today* alongside Roker, Craig, and Sheinelle Jones, was called upon to lend a hand during the show’s opening hour.

The 43-year-old weatherwoman and TV personality is no stranger to *Today*’s viewers, but this was a rare moment when she was on screen earlier than usual.

Al Roker’s absence came just one day after he, Dylan, and Craig made a big announcement for *Today* fans. On Monday’s broadcast, the trio shared some exciting news: *Today* would be taking a special trip to New Orleans later in the month to celebrate Mardi Gras. The live broadcast from the Big Easy would feature a blend of the parades, local festivities, and the city’s vibrant culture. This trip was sure to add a bit of adventure to the show’s regular format, offering viewers a front-row seat to the carnival celebrations in one of America’s most iconic cities.

During the Monday segment, Al enthusiastically shared details of the upcoming event, saying, “Now we’ve got some exciting news to share. We are taking the show on the road to New Orleans. On the 3rd Hour of *Today* on Friday, February 28, we’re going to head down to celebrate Mardi Gras in the Big Easy.” The crew was clearly excited for the upcoming broadcast, with Roker promising an unforgettable experience that would include all the sights, sounds, and tastes that make Mardi Gras in New Orleans such a spectacle.

Dylan also took part in the announcement, encouraging fans to join the fun by participating in the live studio audience. “We want you guys to join in on our fun,” she said, inviting viewers to become a part of the Mardi Gras excitement.

Craig Melvin added to the excitement by unveiling another exciting first for the *Today* show: “Taste of New Orleans,” a special event celebrating the city’s culinary delights. This initiative will bring some of the most renowned chefs in New Orleans together to showcase their signature dishes, giving fans a chance to experience the best of the Big Easy’s food scene. While tickets for the live audience have already sold out, there is still an opportunity for fans to attend the *Today* Food event, providing a unique way to engage with the show during this special New Orleans broadcast.

The absence of Al Roker on Tuesday’s broadcast was a reminder that *Today* has seen some changes in recent months. Earlier in January, Hoda Kotb stepped down from her co-hosting role after 17 years, leaving Craig Melvin to step up and take on the role alongside Savannah Guthrie. These changes have continued to evolve the show’s dynamic, but they’ve also provided new opportunities for the hosts to experiment with the format and introduce exciting new elements to the show.

For many fans of *Today*, Al Roker is a central figure in the morning program’s charm, and his absence on Tuesday raised some questions. However, the appearance of Dylan Dreyer in a slightly different role proved that the *Today* family is adaptable and committed to bringing its audience the best experience, no matter who is on screen. As the show gears up for its special live broadcast from New Orleans later this month, there’s no doubt that viewers can look forward to even more thrilling updates and unforgettable moments with the beloved hosts.

With Mardi Gras just around the corner, *Today* fans can rest assured that whether or not Al Roker is in the spotlight, there are plenty of exciting adventures ahead for the program.

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