On Wednesday morning, NBC announced they were firing Matt Lauer due to "inappropriate sexual behavior" on his part. An NBC employee reportedly filed a complaint against Lauer earlier this week, which eventually led to his dismissal.
Since then, there have been reports about additional sexual misconduct allegations made against Lauer. Multiple women have now accused Lauer of sexual harassment, and there are some disturbing details about Lauer that have come to light.
On Thursday morning, Lauer responded to his firing and the sexual misconduct allegations made against him in a lengthy statement he put out through his personal publicist. Lauer’s now-former Today show co-host Savannah Guthrie and Hoda Kotb read the statement on the air at the top of the show.
"There are no words to express my sorrow and regret for the pain I have caused others by words and actions," Lauer said in his statement. "To the people I have hurt, I am truly sorry. As I am writing this I realize the depth of the damage and disappointment I have left behind at home and at NBC. Some of what is being said about me is untrue or mischaracterized, but there is enough truth in these stories to make me feel embarrassed and ashamed. I regret that my shame is now shared by the people I cherish dearly. Repairing the damage will take a lot of time and soul searching and I’m committed to beginning that effort. It is now my full time job. The last two days have forced me to take a very hard look at my own troubling flaws. It’s been humbling. I am blessed to be surrounded by the people I love. I thank them for their patience and grace."
Lauer did not specify which of the reports that has come out is "untrue or mischaracterized" in his eyes.
