Yesterday morning, viewers of TODAY awoke to the news that longtime anchor Matt Lauer had been fired by NBC News following a complaint from an employee about a 2014 incident of "inappropriate sexual behavior" in the workplace. Since that time, a growing number of allegations including harassment and assault during Lauer's time at the NBC morning show have been emerging.
Today, Lauer broke his silence on the claims, apologizing for his actions and vowing to fix the damage he has caused. His statement follows:
"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. 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," Lauer said in a statement that was released by a personal publicist and formed the bulk of the top story on "Today" Thursday morning. "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."Source: THR
Photo by: Tyler Essary/NBC
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