Al Roker Expresses Joy Over First Christmas as a Grandparent in Exclusive Interview

Al Roker is excited about his first Christmas as a grandparent. He talked to PEOPLE at an event in New York City with his wife Deborah Roberts about their plans with their 6-month-old granddaughter, Sky Clara Laga, and her parents, Courtney Roker and Wesley Laga.

Roker, who is 69, said it’s exciting to have a new grandbaby. He’s looking forward to a different kind of Christmas. Deborah, who is 63, added that for them, Christmas is all about family, especially because their family is spread out. So, this year, they plan to have a close-knit celebration.

Al Roker has a daughter named Courtney, who is 36, with his first wife, Alice Bell. He also has a 25-year-old daughter named Leila and a 21-year-old son named Nicholas Albert with Deborah.

In November, Al Roker had his first Thanksgiving with Sky and shared a family picture on Instagram from the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Roker got emotional talking about Sky’s birth on the Today show, saying it’s a magical experience. Holding his granddaughter made him think about holding her mom almost 35 years ago.

This Christmas is special for Roker because he had health issues last year during the holidays. He posted a picture last year of his family in Peanuts pajamas celebrating Christmas together. He’s grateful for his health this year and wishes everyone a Merry Christmas.