Emilie Ikeda, a correspondent for NBC's 'Today,' revealed her pregnancy live on air during an episode of '3rd Hour of Today' on September 2, 2026. The 32-year-old host surprised her colleagues Craig Melvin and Dylan Dreyer, who were filling in alongside her while Al Roker was absent.
Ikeda shared the news as she discussed her weekend, explaining that it was "best encapsulated with pictures." The broadcast then showed images of Ikeda and her husband, Pat, whom she married in 2022, holding an ultrasound photo. "For those at home, they legitimately don't know. I'm surprising them right now," Ikeda said as Melvin and Dreyer reacted with excitement.
"Wait, are you serious? Congratulations!" Dreyer exclaimed, with Melvin adding, "This is so exciting!"
Ikeda disclosed that she is five months pregnant and expecting the baby in January. She described feeling the baby kick as "miraculous" and a source of joy that helps her manage the demands of her spontaneous job, which often involves chasing breaking news. She also shared on Instagram, "Bursting with gratitude… Praying for good health… And sharing with so much joy… that baby is due in January."
Following the announcement, Ikeda spoke with 'Today' about the couple's decision to not know the baby's gender prior to birth. "I think in a world filled with instant information, there are few genuine surprises, and this feels like the ultimate surprise," she stated. "I can only imagine the euphoria in the delivery room when someone reveals, 'It's a… BOY/GIRL!'"
Ikeda also reflected on her pregnancy journey so far, noting that her first trimester was "incredibly nauseous," which presented challenges for her role. Colleagues, including Carson Daly, Sheinelle Jones, and Al Roker, shared their congratulations in the comments section of her social media post.