As TODAY celebrates its 75th anniversary, TODAY Archive It revisits legendary interviews, the stories that touched us, and other iconic moments from our 75 years on the air. These are the segments that shape TODAY and create a lasting legacy. Today, we’re looking at Al Roker as he prepares for his classic cameo on “Seinfeld” on December 5, 1993.
Al Roker is synonymous with TODAY, but he also lent his talents to another NBC series during its heyday.
Yes, Al appeared as himself in an episode of “Seinfeld” that aired during the sitcom’s fifth season on December 9, 1993.
But a few days before that, on Dec. 5, Al took TODAY viewers backstage for a cameo.
What Advice Did Al Get From ‘Seinfeld’ Star Jerry Seinfeld?
“This is my big break, my acting debut, my chance at stardom,” Al joked in voiceover as he walked onto the “Seinfeld” set.
Al then chatted with the actors to get some tips on how to approach his role.
“Actually, it’s just acting,” “Seinfeld” star and creator Jerry Seinfeld told him.
Jason Alexander Shares a Different Perspective
Her co-star Jason Alexander had a harsher approach to the subject.
“The thought that should always go through your mind is: ‘Please God, don’t let me ruin this,'” he said matter-of-factly. “If you take all the acting training I’ve had and boil it down to that, that’s basically what I do.”
Alexander took this a step further by encouraging Al to play the role of “passing the wind” if the camera remained on him when the scene ended. It showed what this type of facial expression looks like and how effective it can be.
“It’s good for every situation. It covers everything,” he said.
Did Al Win ‘Seinfeld’ Cast?
In the episode, Al, featured on the cover of TV Guide, becomes a key cog in the plot. The episode caught Al rehearsing for his big scene, which took place on the New York City subway. His co-star Julia Louis-Dreyfus was less than impressed when she later asked him if he had potential.
“No, I don’t know, Al,” he joked. “You’re incompetent, Al.”
Al was surprised to learn that the cast didn’t get angry, but he still showed his strength and received a nice applause from the audience when Seinfeld introduced him after the shoot.