Al Roker and Deborah Roberts have been one of television’s most admired power couples — but behind the red carpets and perfect smiles lies a truth few expected. In a rare and emotional confession, the ABC News anchor revealed that her marriage to the Today show star is far from effortless, admitting that after 28 years, they’re “constantly working on it.” Standing side by side at a glamorous New York gala, the pair appeared every bit the picture of success — yet Roberts’ candid words painted a far more human, vulnerable story. She opened up about the struggles, the compromises, and the moments that have tested their bond like never before. Even Roker, known for his warmth and humor, made a stunning admission that left the audience — and his fans — speechless

After nearly three decades of marriage, ABC News anchor Deborah Roberts and Today Show’s Al Roker are opening up about what it really takes to stay together in the spotlight — and it’s not the fairytale many imagine.

In an exclusive interview with The U.S. Sun at the Harlem School of the Arts’ 60th Anniversary Gala, Roberts admitted that after 28 years of marriage, she and Roker are “still a work in progress.” The couple, who share three children, have weathered career highs, health scares, and public scrutiny — and through it all, they’ve remained committed to growth, compromise, and love.

“Oh, my gosh,” Roberts said. “I think the biggest thing is not to tell anybody that you have it figured out — because we don’t. We’re working at it constantly. We are a work in progress.”

Roker, 69, and Roberts, 63, attended the gala with their 21-year-old son Nick, where they were honored for their contributions to the arts. Roker joked that he only attended because of his family: “I’m just along for the ride,” he laughed, praising Deborah and Nick as the real stars. When he took the stage, the beloved weatherman melted hearts, calling his wife and son the “greatest masterpieces” he’s ever seen.

Their 29th wedding anniversary, coming up in September 2024, will mark nearly three decades of partnership between two of television’s most respected journalists. But Roberts insists their success comes not from perfection, but perseverance. “Life is all about growing and evolving — sometimes compromising, sometimes not,” she explained. “But I think the desire to be committed and to work makes a big difference.”

The evening was a family affair, with Today co-host Sheinelle Jones also in attendance, joined by her daughter for the Bridgerton-themed gala. Jones praised Roker and Roberts as role models for balancing career and family life, calling their honor “well-deserved.”

Behind the glitz, though, Roberts remains grounded in her demanding career. As co-anchor of ABC’s 20/20 alongside David Muir, she reflected on the weight of stepping into a role once held by Barbara Walters, her mentor. “It’s humbling,” she said. “I feel a certain amount of responsibility for the show, and working closely with my team has been fantastic.”

Despite their busy schedules on rival networks, Roker and Roberts have built a home rooted in love and respect. They share two daughters — Leila Ruth, 25, and Courtney, 37 (from Roker’s first marriage) — and have often spoken publicly about their commitment to family above fame.

Roker summed up the night best with a simple truth that mirrored their marriage: “I’d rather be home — but when it’s for my family, I’ll always show up.”

It’s a rare glimpse behind the cameras — proof that even in the fast-paced world of TV, real love isn’t about perfection; it’s about showing up, every single day, for the people who matter most.