Willard Scott Dies At 87: Al Roker Shares How He Inspired Him

Willard Scott has died at age 87. In an interview that originally aired in 2013, Al Roker shares how the longtime TODAY weatherman served as his inspiration when he joined the broadcast.

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[melindam]

What a great tribute Al Roker gave to Willard Scott. I’m glad to have grown up watching both of these fine gentlemen.

[Calvero]

I was really hoping that when he turned 100, they would make a big deal out of it. I always loved seeing him announce centenarian birthdays 💯. RIP Mr. Scott ❤️

[garyb]

Enjoyed watching him for decades, , , RIP

[barbaram]

RIP Willard. We need your type of joy and kindness today more than ever.

[JK-xlun]

Spent 12+ years working at Hammacher Schlemmer Flagship store in mid-town Manhattan. And a former Today producer told me of her time when she had cancer. After her final treatment Willard Scott convinced her to stay at the Park Plaza to recoup for a few days. She thought it was a good idea. When she checked out of the hotel she was told Willard Scott paid her bill and there was a limo waiting to take her home.

[Edward-oyed]

He really really cared about everyday people and payed it forward with a smile everyday, what a great soul !

[joellamothe]

Goodbye Willard, you were a very kind man who made everyday better just watching you. Thanks

[shanemcconnell]

RIP Willard. I grew up watching him and enjoying his 100 year old Smuckers birthday tributes as well. I wish I could have met him person. My condolences to his family❤️🙏

[lchambers]

So sad that he's gone. It's hard being an 80s kid at times. More and more of our past fades on into memory as time goes by.

[f-luva-luva]

Grew up watching this man. What a wonderful mark he has left on this world. My condolences to his family.

[shannon_w.]

He was the closest thing to Santa Claus we can get! He was sweet, happy, giving and jolly! He will be sorely missed. RIP Willard Scott ❤️

[JoseTwitterFan]

One of the greatest Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade hosts of all-time. A very special part of my childhood on Turkey Day growing up.

R.I.P. Willard Scott

[bennythepooh]

I grew up with Willard and I felt the same way with Al. I think my liking of him was his self deprecating humour and his many visits on Late Night with Conan O’Brien. They’re both guy’s guys and the ladies loved them.

[chuckers]

I'm old enough to remember Willard Scott as the weatherman for my home station WRC-TV NBC4 Washington, DC. He was an absolute HOOT. He was hilarious. R.I.P. to a TV legend.

[geoben]

Willard Scott epitomizes the sentiment of he is, and was a good man, and a beautiful human being. Thanks for the good times Uncle Willard! ✌

[EAB]

A staple. I grew up admiring his 100 year old smuckers birthday tributes

[paigemorgan]

I'm so sorry to hear this, Willard was one of a kind. I'll be praying for his beloved family and friends.

[missyheaton]

So, sad. I was just wondering how he was doing this past week. I enjoyed his talent. He was down home and relatable.

[imhisapple]

When you can leave a smile in people's hearts and lives then you've done good. Great life! RIH

[HelloGoodby]

Good man. He brought a refreshing humility to NBC.