For a long time, you couldn't watch the Today show without seeing Al Roker. As a weatherman or as a mere correspondent, he was a mainstay on the show. I remember seeing him when I was younger, always incredibly warm and inviting. Every time, he had his catchphrase, "here's what's happening in your neck of the woods." I always wondered where that came from. Now, he's opening up about its roots and why he continued to use it over the years.
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Recently, Al Roker spoke to PEOPLE at the 46th Annual News Emmy Awards. There, he accepts his Lifetime Achievement Honor for his illustrious broadcasting career. Additionally, he addresses where that signature phrase stems from. Apparently, it's tried and true within the Roker's family. "My grandfather used to say that, yeah. So that was kind of an homage to him," he says.
Al Roker Gives Homage to His Grandfather Every Time He Used His Catchphrase
This could've been a one-off situation. He could've just gave the nod to his grandfather and kept going throughout his career. However, this obviously became a recurring refrain throughout his career, to the point where it's a full blown catchphrase for him. So why keep going? The reason is actually quite simple. Working in TV, Roker just needed something for signaling on the show. "I've got to say the same thing, so that the local stations know when to cut away," he shares.
In terms of the larger honor he receives at the News Emmy Awards, the experience grounds him in a way. It gives Roker the opportunity to really reflect on the blessings he's had throughout his career. "I think it's more the cumulative effect of just being able to see, being able to witness history both in front of and behind the camera — to watch things, how things have changed. And so I'm very thrilled," he explains.
