TODAY Show’s 2025 Halloween Extravaganza Unveils Epic American Road Trip Theme

The TODAY Show celebrated Halloween 2025 with its legendary costume reveal. This year’s theme was a spectacular coast-to-coast road trip. The event featured anchors transforming into iconic American figures like Prince, Rocky Balboa, and Wayne Newton.

The annual tradition, a viewer favorite for decades, kicked off on October 31st. The plaza was buzzing with energy as the cast brought their characters to life with detailed costumes and full musical performances.

A Cross-Country Parade of American Icons

Craig Melvin delivered a show-stopping performance as the legendary musician Prince. He performed “Purple Rain” in full regalia, complete with iconic heels. Melvin told viewers it was one of his most challenging and rewarding costumes to date.

Carson Daly embodied the underdog spirit as Rocky Balboa. His costume featured a meticulously distressed grey tracksuit straight from the 1976 film. Al Roker complemented the theme as Rocky’s formidable foe, Clubber Lang, played by Mr. T.

Willie Geist brought Las Vegas glamour to the set as the legendary Wayne Newton. He performed “Danke Schoen” surrounded by showgirls, capturing the essence of the iconic entertainer.

Why This Annual Tradition Captivates Millions

The TODAY Show Halloween Extravaganza is more than just costumes. It is a decades-long tradition that showcases incredible dedication and creativity. According to NBC Entertainment, planning for the event begins months in advance.

This commitment to quality creates a must-see television event. Fans across the country tune in to see which cultural icons the anchors will portray. The 2025 road trip theme celebrated a diverse range of American music, film, and pop culture.

The segment also featured Sheinelle Jones as Beyoncé from her ‘Cowboy Carter’ era and Dylan Dreyer as Frankie Valli. The variety of characters highlighted different facets of the nation’s entertainment history.

The 2025 TODAY Show Halloween Extravaganza successfully blended nostalgia with modern performance, solidifying its status as a premier daytime television event. This year’s road trip theme proved once again why this tradition remains a beloved highlight for viewers every October.

Thought you’d like to know-

What was the TODAY Show’s 2025 Halloween theme?

The theme was an epic American road trip. Anchors dressed as iconic figures from different U.S. cities and eras, including Prince from Minneapolis and Wayne Newton from Las Vegas.

Who dressed as Prince for the TODAY Show Halloween?

Craig Melvin portrayed the music icon Prince. He performed a rendition of “Purple Rain” while wearing an authentic costume, including the musician’s signature high-heeled boots.

Which Rocky characters were featured on TODAY?

Carson Daly appeared as Rocky Balboa and Al Roker transformed into Clubber Lang, Mr. T’s character from Rocky III. Their costumes featured detailed, weathered tracksuits.

How long has the TODAY Show done Halloween costumes?

This beloved tradition dates back to 1994. It has run for over three decades, making it a staple of the show’s programming and a fan-favorite event every fall.

Were there any special guests this year?

Yes, Mario Lopez made a surprise appearance. He visited co-host Laura Jarrett, who was dressed as Lisa Turtle from Saved by the Bell, the show that made Lopez famous.