Carson Daly Says He's Better 'in a Multitude of Ways' After 2nd Back Surgery

Carson Daly is back on The Today Show! In late August, the co-Host underwent a successful spinal fusion procedure (his second back surgery) and has been in recovery for seven weeks. With his return on October 18, he told colleagues Savannah Guthrie, Hoda Kotb, Al Roker, and Sheinelle Jones that he has been making some great improvements in his physical and mental health.

Daly’s back troubles first began with a snowmobile accident in 1997. Since his second surgery, he's had a resting period before flying out to film The Voice in Los Angeles (where he serves as Host), and then returning to The Today Show. He said that his journey is not over, as he has lots of work in physical therapy to come. 

“When you’re in pain, you’re looking to just feel good,” he said of the emotions you feel when recovering from a long-term injury. “And that changes the relationship with food and drink and your life. And when they fix the pain, you’re left with these other complex areas of your life that you need to deal with.”

However, his future is bright. “I’m getting better in a multitude of ways," Daly said. He then gave details on his recovery process, including going on long walks in his neighborhoods, calling himself the “Forrest Gump of Long Island.” His co-workers were clearly all more than happy to have him back, giving him a warm welcome. “Carson, we have missed you,” Guthrie said sincerely.

Watch The Voice on NBC Mondays and Tuesdays at 8/7c and next day on Peacock.