Matt Lauer: “Enough truth in these stories”

US anchor Matt Lauer has issued a statement following his firing from the NBC Today show.

“There are no words to express my sorrow and regret for the pain I have caused others by words and actions,” he said.

“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.”

Three women identified themselves as victims of sexual harassment by Lauer, however NBC News confirmed that more women had come forward to make allegations since the first complainant.

Yesterday the network said his actions were a clear violation of our company’s standards, adding “we were also presented with reason to believe this may not have been an isolated incident.”

Whilst GMA remains America’s most-watched morning program, Today is the most-watched among viewers between 25 and 54, worth more than $500 million in ad revenue each year.

Source: Variety