Al Roker Announces Devastating Family Loss
Al Roker and his wife, Deborah Roberts, announced a devastating family loss.
On Tuesday, June 11, the Today show co-anchor revealed that their dog, Pepper—whom they adopted from a Pennsylvania rescue in 2012—had died.
"12 years ago, this sweet little girl named Pepper changed our lives. Yesterday, we had to say goodbye," Roker, 69, began in the tear-jerking statement that accompanied a slideshow of family photos featuring the beloved pooch. "While our hearts are heavy, they are also fuller because of all the love she bestowed on everyone who got to meet her."
Fans expressed their condolences to Roker and Roberts in the wake of Pepper's passing.
"omg I'm sorry Al-its the worst feeling in the world. May the memories outweigh the sorrow," one Instagram user wrote. "Sending you, Deb and the kids a big hug ??."
"Many hugs to you," a second sweetly shared.
"I’m so sorry for your loss," another wrote. "Furry babies are such an important part of our lives. ??."
"All dogs go to heaven ?????," someone else added.
On May 5, Roker revealed that Pepper underwent surgery following a health scare in an Instagram update.
"Our little girl, Pepper had emergency surgery but is on the mend," the doting dog dad wrote. "She’s getting great care and is coming home tomorrow. Woof."
He sweetly added, "You can sleep on our bed as much as you want."
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Meanwhile, Roberts shared photos of her own of their recovering pooch via Instagram on May 5, writing, "Gratitude. My heart is bursting with it today."
She continued: "Our littlest girl, Pepper, gave us quite a scare. She has survived an emergency surgery. But thankfully, Our strong girl is recovering. We are grateful for any and all prayers for our sweet doggie who has stolen our hearts for 12 years now."
On May 24, Roker shared a happy update about Pepper as she healed from surgery. "My girl is feeling better. Perfect way to start the #memorialdayweekend," he wrote on Instagram.
In the accompanying video, Roker cheered for his pup, exclaiming, "What a good girl!" as Pepper chased a frisbee and brought it back.
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Our thoughts are with Roker and Roberts as they mourn the loss of their beloved pup.
Next: Fans Gush Over Al Roker's 'Precious' Photos With Granddaughter Sky
