Not many people live to be 100. It’s hard to imagine that many years on Earth, but if you make it that long, it’s truly a blessing. In the early 1980s, NBC broadcaster Willard Scott began recognizing centenarians on the Today Show. The segment eventually became sponsored by Smucker’s and featured the birthday boys and girls on a jelly jar. The Today Show family recently celebrated a very special 100th birthday of their own. Film and Book critic Gene Shalit, who spent more than 40 years on Today, turned 100 on March 25, 2026. View this post on Instagram A post shared by TODAY (@todayshow) Al Roker Shared a Special Message for Gene on His 100th Birthday. Al Roker shared a sweet message about Gene Shalit on his birthday. He called Gene a “legend” who created so many memorable moments on Today. Al recalled Sofia Loren becoming so captivated by Gene’s iconic moustache and hair that she just had to run her hands through it. He also spoke of Gene’s amazing sense of humor and ability to get people to talk and laugh during interviews like no one else ever could. “Happy Birthday to TODAY Show legend Gene Shalit, who turns 100 years old today! Shalit, who started at TODAY in 1969, spent 41 years at the show, the longest anyone has been on one television program in TV history,” an Instagram post reads. “Happy Birthday, Gene!” The birthday greetings for Gene Shalit poured in. “Happy 100th Birthday Gene. Can’t believe you’re still going strong,” a fan wrote. “Happy Centennial Birthday Gene Shalit. Gene Loves Critically Praised Great Movies To Review For,” another person shared. “God Bless you Gene and Happy Birthday! Always loved when he was on. His interview with Carol Channing is priceless,” a sweet comment reads. Happy Birthday, Gene. May this be your most blessed year yet. This story’s featured image is by NBC NewsWire/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images.