Matt Lauer, the fired former host of Today, has apologised after his rapid fall from grace over accusations of sexual harassment, misconduct and assault.
In a statement issued through his PR team, Lauer expressed “sorrow and regret for the pain I have caused” after his firing by NBC News. He admitted that much of what has been written about him over the past day has been true.
Some of what is being said about me is untrue or mischaracterised, 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.
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 realise the depth of the damage and disappointment I have left behind at home and at NBC.
Lauer was a mainstay of US television, having been the host of Today for over two decades. A number of accusations have emerged over the past couple of days alleging that Lauer frequently sexually harassed female reporters and staffers who worked under him. The allegations include one woman who says Lauer sexually assaulted her in his office.
The former anchor claims that his “full-time job” is repairing the damage he has caused.
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.
