Savannah Guthrie and Hoda Kotb shared a written statement from former colleague of the "Today Show" #MattLaurer. He breaks his silence and issues an apology. #todayshow #sexaulassault pic.twitter.com/oZ2VsuqjGw
— Atlanta Black Star (@ATLBlackStar) November 30, 2017
Former “Today Show” host Matt Lauer’s scandal continues to pour out as two publications have released their reports on the accusations. This ahead of the fired NBC News anchor issuing an apology for what the company chairman described as ” inappropriate sexual behavior.”
“There are no words to express my sorrow and regret for the pain I have caused others by words and actions,” Lauer said in a statement, which was read on-air Thursday, Nov. 30. “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,” Lauer said. “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,” Lauer concluded. “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.”
On Wednesday, Nov. 29, chairman Andy Lack, issued a memo saying Lauer was terminated. The network reportedly knew Variety and The New York Times were readying bombshell reports, published later that day, detailing Lauer’s sexual assault allegations.
Three anonymous women told Variety about their accounts, including one who said Lauer gave her a sex toy as a present with a note describing how he’d use it on her. Another said he dropped his pants and showed her his penis after inviting her into his office.
Lauer’s dismissal stemmed from “inappropriate sexual conduct” that began during the 2014 Sochi Olympics, according to the trade publication.
A woman told The NYT that Lauer locked her in his office using a button under his desk before having sex with her. She said she woke up after passing out with her pants pulled down. The woman added Lauer’s assistant took her to see a nurse and she (the accuser) did not report the incident.
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In the meantime, reactions continue to flow from Twitter timelines. Many people remarked about Lauer’s saying he’s “truly sorry.”
Yeah, that someone snitched!😑
— keshia (@olivia_twyst) November 30, 2017
The last two days? He’s only saying sorry now because he’s being called out on his predatory behavior . No thanks to some of the folks at @nbc . Who else needs to be fired over there? You need to start believing women #MeToo horrendous
— Laureen (@laureenm01) November 30, 2017
Too late for apologies
— Andre Featherstone (@RazerCutt1963) November 30, 2017
The only thing he’s sorry about is that he got caught and then fired. I’m over these apologies from these pathetic excuses for men. Here’s an idea, stop sexually assaulting women and then you wont’ have to apologize for anything.
— DailyMusings (@Melio521) November 30, 2017
