Additional Coverage:
- Craig Melvin and Al Roker granted restraining orders after terrifying incident on Show (irishstar.com)
Craig Melvin and Al Roker have obtained temporary restraining orders against Andrew Truelove, the man accused of breaking into the Today Show’s Studio 1A and directing racial slurs at the NBC personalities.
Truelove, 41, was arrested on July 16 after allegedly sneaking into NBC’s Rockefeller Plaza studio by following an employee through a secured entrance. The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office charged him the following day with two felony counts: third-degree burglary as a hate crime and third-degree menacing as a hate crime. He was held on $10,000 cash bail and remains in custody on Rikers Island after not posting bail.
According to the criminal complaint, witnesses reported that Truelove appeared to be looking for Al Roker before confronting Craig Melvin, 47, and shouting racial slurs. When Melvin responded, “That’s what you wanted to get arrested for?”
the confrontation escalated. NBC released a statement emphasizing its full cooperation with law enforcement and reaffirming its commitment to the safety and security of its employees and guests.
Truelove is due back in court on July 22 and could face up to 15 years in prison if convicted. This incident follows a June 2026 guilty plea for felony criminal mischief, for which he was sentenced to six months in jail, five years of probation, and $375 in fees. It remains unclear how much of that sentence he had served prior to this latest alleged offense.
Following the incident, Melvin reassured viewers on social media that he was unharmed and thanked supporters. Roker also expressed gratitude in an Instagram post, highlighting the solidarity that such moments inspire. “You come after one of us, you come after all of us,” Roker stated.
Melvin addressed the event live on the Today Show, confirming that the intruder was quickly apprehended and emphasizing cooperation with the NYPD. Co-anchor Laura Jarrett echoed the sentiment, affirming the importance of everyone’s safety.
NBC continues to review its security protocols as it investigates the incident, committed to maintaining a safe environment for all who work at and visit its studios.