Matt Lauer says he’s ‘truly sorry’ for conduct that got him fired
Matt Lauer, the fired longtime anchor of NBC’s “Today” show broke his silence Thursday with a statement that said he was “truly sorry” for the conduct that led to his ouster.
His statement included a partial denial but he admitted “there is enough truth in these stories to make me feel embarrassed and ashamed.”
“There are no words to express my sorrow and regret for the pain I have caused others by words and actions. 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,” Lauer said.
“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,” he added. “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’s firing was announced at the top of Wednesday’s show by Savannah Guthrie, his co-host. Variety published a more detailed story of the alleged sexual misconduct of Lauer, 59, who had been the long-running star of morning television.
High-profile people accused of sexual misconduct
NBC News Chairman Andrew Lack said in a memo Wednesday that the first woman’s complaint prompted a serious review and represented a “clear violation of our company’s standards.”
Jimmy Fallon, the host of NBC’s “Tonight Show” did not avoid the mess in his monologue.
“The Rockefeller Center Christmas tree was lit tonight,” he said. “Also getting lit tonight, the HR rep over at the “Today” show.”
Falon also cracked that “if you were wondering where in the world is Matt Lauer,” he’s “probably at a bar with Charlie Rose.”