Fox 9 meteorologist Keith Marler returned to live television on Wednesday — just in time to report on our stormy weather.

“He’s back!” proclaimed anchor Tom Butler during the 11 a.m. news.

After Marler’s knee went out on live television in January, he took time off in February from KMSP-TV for reconstructive surgery. After more than three months away, Marler returned to the station’s studio in Eden Prairie on Monday and appeared on air again on Wednesday.

This was not a simple fix Marler endured as it involved — among other interventions — breaking his right leg to re-align it, part of what Marler has described as a “high tibial osteotomy.”

“Holy moly!” Marler said to Butler about the extensive reworking of his knee and leg. “Zero stars. Would not recommend.”

His sense of humor was not affected, though. Here’s what Marler said he asked his orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Ryan Fader:

“Doctor, will I be able to play the piano after the surgery?”

Yes, of course!

But … Marler admitted he couldn’t play the piano before the surgery.

“I was just curious,” Marler said with a smile.

Fortunately, Marler reports that his other knee won’t require this same procedure and is currently stable.

But per doctor’s orders, Marler is returning to work part time for now, with physical therapy continuing. So while viewers won’t see Marler back on the early morning news show quite yet, he’s still got his eye on the sky.

“I am paying attention,” Marler said.

Viewers seemed glad; Marler’s weather reports often include wry asides as well as the necessary information.

“Have REALLY missed you in the morning!” one person commented on Marler’s Facebook page. “A perfect blend of nonsense & weather.”

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