Born August 20, 1954, New York native Al Roker double majored in graphic design and broadcast journalism at State University of New York at Oswego. After graduating, he found work as a weatherman at WNBC in New York City, and would continue to work in meteorology for years to come. He began working as the weatherman for Weekend Today, and eventually began filling in for Today Show weatherman Willard Scott on occasion. In 1996, Scott announced that he would be going into semi-retirement, and Roker's position on the Today Show became much more prominent, making him a familiar name and face to millions of Americans. In 2001, Roker underwent gastric bypass surgery and lost 100 lbs. off his 300 lb.-plus frame, and spoke publicly about his decision, hoping to spread awareness about just when and how the operation should be considered. Roker also explored other areas of journalism, hosting the series Al Roker Investigates, as well as the travel series Going Places. Roker lent his voice to several films throughout the 2000s, including Robots (2005), Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs (2009), and The Pirates! Band of Misfits! (2012).