Billy Bush Suspended from NBC's TODAY; Actress Arianne Zucker Breaks Silence

NBC News reports that Billy Bush has been suspended from THE TODAY SHOW "pending further review" in the wake of a devastating videotape which emerged on Friday evening. The news of the anchorman's suspension was announced in an internal staff memo from senior vice president Noah Oppenheim.

The controversy erupted Friday evening after videotape was released featuring Bush and presidential candidate Donald Trump in discussion just prior to taping a segment on a 2005 episode of "Access Hollywood" On the tape, Trump can be heard boasting in lewd and offensive terms about his unsuccessful attempt to seduce a married woman. He goes on to brag about kissing and groping women without their consent, saying "when you're a star, they let you do it." Bush, then an anchor for Access Hollywood, is heard on the tape laughing and prodding Trump on.

In his memo, Oppenheim commented, "I know we've all been deeply troubled by the revelations of the past 48 hours. Let me be clear - there is simply no excuse for Billy's language and behavior on that tape. NBC has decided to suspend Billy, pending further review of this matter."

Following the videotape's release on Friday evening, Bush apologized for his actions, saying "Obviously I'm embarrassed and ashamed. It's no excuse, but this happened 11 years ago - I was younger, less mature, and acted foolishly in playing along. I'm very sorry."

On Sunday, Arianne Zucker, the actress who was the target of much of Bush and Trump's lewd comments on the video, took to Twitter to respond to the controversy:

"My name is Arianne (R-E-on) ZUCKER (Zooker) and I am a strong, independent, hard working mother, business woman and partner to a great man. I have grown to learn that the words of others cannot effect the value of my self worth or define the content of my character. How we treat one another, whether behind closed doors, locker rooms or face to face, should be done with kindness, dignity and respect. Unfortunately, there are too many people in power who abuse their position and disregard these simple principles and are rewarded for it. In understanding the magnitude of this situation, I choose to stand tall with self respect and use my voice to enrich, inspire and elevate the best of who we are as people".

Photo courtesy of Chris Haston/NBC

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