ECNETNews, New York, NY, August 16, 2024: Al Roker, the renowned New York weatherman and best-selling author with Caribbean heritage, was honored today with the Key to the City of New York by Mayor Eric Adams as he celebrated his 70th birthday.
This prestigious award recognizes Roker’s decades of service in broadcast journalism, notably his nearly 30-year tenure on NBC’s TODAY show. He has become synonymous with not only weather reports but also breaking news coverage and cherished events like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
“For over 40 years, Al Roker has been a beloved fixture in the lives of New Yorkers and Americans nationwide,” Mayor Adams remarked. “Al’s vibrant energy and determination have established him as a leading figure in meteorology, connecting with audiences through both local broadcasts and significant national events. Today, we honor an icon of New York who has brought ‘what’s happening in our neck of the woods’ into our homes.”
With roots in Jamaica from his mother Isabel and the Bahamas from his father Albert Lincoln Roker Sr., who was a bus driver in New York City, Roker expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the accolade.
“I never thought a kid from Queens would receive the Key to the City of New York,” he shared. “This recognition is genuinely meaningful. I have a deep love for this city and cherish my upbringing in a family where my dad worked as a bus driver. I consider myself very fortunate.”
Roker’s career commenced as a weather anchor in Syracuse before he joined the TODAY show, where he has become a cherished television personality. Throughout his impressive career, he has been awarded 14 Emmy Awards and has emerged as a notable media executive with the establishment of Al Roker Entertainment. Besides his broadcasting achievements, Roker is also a best-selling author, writing on diverse topics including fatherhood, culinary arts, and murder mysteries.
The Key to the City of New York, a historic honor dating back to 1702, is bestowed upon individuals who have made significant contributions to society and the greater good. Roker’s Caribbean lineage and his journey from aspiring cartoonist to revered media figure illustrate his dedication and passion for his craft. Raised in a Catholic household and a graduate of Xavier High School in Manhattan, Roker’s impact is felt not only in New York but throughout the United States.
Today’s accolade underscores Roker’s status as a true icon, solidifying his legacy among the most respected individuals in the city.
