Dylan Dreyer and Al Roker were seated by another member of the Today team on Thursday April 30 – and it wasn’t Craig Melvin.
At the start of the show, Al introduced the Third Hour alongside Dylan and Saturday Today host Laura Jarrett; the three were seated outside in a completely different location.
Instead of their usual studio inside Studio 1A, the trio sat at a table in Park Central Square, downtown Springfield, Missouri. Behind them, enthusiastic locals were gathered with signs, along with a marching band and mascots.
“Man, this crowd is amazing,” Dylan said, as they cheered further. Laura then revealed that many of them had been waiting outside since 4am. The Third Hour announced its plans several weeks ago to host the show in Springfield, marking the 100th anniversary of Route 66, which began in the town a century ago.
The action-packed show featured guests including Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe, who presented TODAY with the official key to Route 66.
Country music singer Chris Janson sang his hit single, Me & A Beer, while the Missouri State Sugar Bears Dance Team performed with Dylan and Laura, who were being driven down the road by Al.
© NBCThe Today Show often travels for special broadcasts, visiting locations across the United States and even further afield.
The news of the special show was announced at the end of March in a post on social media. It stated: “The 3rd Hour of TODAY anchors are motoring west and heading to Springfield, Missouri, for what we’re calling Destination: Route 66!
© Getty Images“On Thursday, April 30, Al Roker and Dylan Dryer will be broadcasting LIVE from downtown Springfield — and we’re inviting you to get your kicks on Route 66 and experience the city’s one-of-a-kind culture at Birthplace Plaza.
“We’ll take you along for an incredible tour of everything the city has to offer — from local food and music to the stories that made Route 66 famous. We’ll even catch up with legendary actor and proud Missouri State alum, John Goodman! Join Al and Dylan as they experience all that Springfield has to offer and get a firsthand look at America’s most famous highway.”
© NBCWhile Craig’s absence wasn’t addressed, Al and Dylan were the only names mentioned in the press release.
Laura often steps in to substitute as host during the weekday show too, and has a close relationship with the them all. It was revealed in March that Laura’s Saturday Today co-host Peter Alexander would be leaving the show, although his replacement is yet to be announced.
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