Image Source: TODAY.com
Today Show Halloween 2026 brought NBC’s 100-year history to life on Friday, Oct. 30, with spectacular costumes, celebrity appearances, comedy and plenty of spooky surprises. The four-hour Halloween extravaganza unfolded live from Rockefeller Center as the TODAY team celebrated some of the network’s most memorable television moments.
This year’s theme, “NBC Halloween,” gave the anchors an opportunity to honor beloved programs, personalities and cultural milestones connected to the network. From “Friends” and “Saturday Night Live” to “The Tonight Show,” the celebration combined nostalgia with ambitious performances on the plaza.
Today Show Halloween 2026 Delivers Historic Costume Reveals
The biggest reveal featured Savannah Guthrie and Jenna Bush Hager portraying two iconic “Friends” characters. Guthrie transformed into Rachel Green, complete with the character’s signature hairstyle, while Bush Hager embraced Phoebe Buffay and performed the beloved song “Smelly Cat.”
Both hosts said the sitcom held a special place in their memories. Guthrie described “Friends” as a cultural milestone, while Bush Hager said she had watched the entire series and already knew Phoebe’s famous song by heart.
Other standout transformations included Craig Melvin as rapper and entertainer Snoop Dogg, Al Roker as Gumby from “Saturday Night Live” and Willie Geist as late-night legend Johnny Carson. Geist recreated Carson’s famous “Carnac the Magnificent” persona, bringing a classic NBC moment to the modern-day celebration.
- Dylan Dreyer: Jeannie from “I Dream of Jeannie”
- Laura Jarrett: Olympic gymnast Simone Biles
- Carson Daly: country singer Ella Langley
- Sheinelle Jones: a Radio City Rockette
- Jenna Bush Hager’s cat Maisie: “Smelly Cat”
Sheinelle Jones Takes on a Challenging Rockette Performance
Sheinelle Jones delivered one of the morning’s most demanding performances by dancing alongside the Radio City Rockettes. She explained that the routine required extensive preparation because the troupe’s choreography is highly technical and precise.
Jones said she had stopped ballet in seventh grade, making the performance a personal challenge. Her costume also included colorful details inspired by the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, combining the Rockettes’ signature movement with a playful holiday reference.
The production team worked carefully to make each costume feel authentic. Laura Jarrett’s one-piece outfit was created by the same manufacturer that produces Olympic leotards for Team USA. Al Roker’s Gumby costume was made by the “SNL” team responsible for Eddie Murphy’s version, while Savannah Guthrie wore a real NBC page uniform borrowed from the network.
Surprise Guests Add Comedy and NBC Nostalgia
The live celebration included several high-profile appearances. Jack McBrayer returned as Kenneth Parcell from “30 Rock,” joining Guthrie during a tour of NBC’s historic headquarters. McBrayer later discussed the sitcom’s 20th anniversary and revealed that he still owns his famous page outfit.
Martha Stewart also appeared alongside Melvin’s Snoop Dogg character. The lifestyle expert prepared a selection of Halloween dishes, including spooky apple “shrunken heads,” bourbon cider punch, ghostly goulash and a no-bake spiderweb cheesecake. A chocolate mishap during the dessert segment added an unscripted moment of humor.
NBC’s century-long history remained central throughout the broadcast. Trivia segments highlighted the network’s launch in 1926, the debut of “TODAY” in 1952, the arrival of “Saturday Night Live” in 1975 and the premieres of “Friends” and “ER” in 1994.
Why the 2026 Celebration Stands Out
The 2026 Halloween event was more than a costume showcase. It served as a lively tribute to NBC’s legacy and the shows that shaped American television. By pairing familiar characters with current TODAY personalities, the broadcast connected generations of viewers through comedy, music and memorable pop culture moments.
With elaborate costumes, live choreography, special guests and festive recipes, the TODAY team once again turned the Rockefeller Center plaza into one of television’s biggest Halloween stages.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the theme of Today Show Halloween 2026?
The theme was “NBC Halloween,” celebrating NBC’s 100-year history and its most recognizable shows, stars and traditions.
Who did Savannah Guthrie portray?
Savannah Guthrie dressed as Rachel Green from the hit NBC sitcom “Friends.”
Who did Jenna Bush Hager play?
Jenna Bush Hager portrayed Phoebe Buffay from “Friends” and performed “Smelly Cat.”
What was Al Roker’s Halloween costume?
Al Roker dressed as Gumby, the memorable character associated with Eddie Murphy’s “Saturday Night Live” performances.
Did any pets appear during the celebration?
Yes. Jenna Bush Hager’s cat, Maisie Moo Bush Hager, appeared as “Smelly Cat,” referencing Phoebe’s famous song from “Friends.”
