Frequent Fox News commentator Geraldo Rivera came to the defense of NBC's Matt Lauer after he was fired for sexual misconduct. The former Today Show host was terminated following an investigation into his "inappropriate sexual behavior."
Variety reports that Lauer has been accused of multiple instances of sexual misconduct from co-workers. One colleague alleges she was given a sex toy as a gift with a note on how he would use it on her. Lauer also reportedly had a secret button in his office that would lock the door. He allegedly would then expose himself and proposition for sexual acts.
Responding to the news, Rivera, seemingly supporting Lauer's behavior, tweeted "News is a flirty business & it seems like current epidemic of #SexHarassmentAllegations may be criminalizing courtship & conflating it w predation."
Many clapped back at Rivera's comments, saying that they came across as defensive, problematic, and suspicious.
Others pointed out an interview where Bette Midler accuses Rivera of groping her.
Fox News sent a statement to Business Insider distancing themselves from Rivera's tweets. "Geraldo's tweets do not reflect the views of FOX News or its management. We were troubled by his comments and are addressing them with him."
A while after posting the tweets supporting Lauer and receiving backlash, Rivera apologized.
