Former Today Show host Matt Lauer has released a statement regarding the sexual assault allegations against him. This comes a day after NBC received two new complaints about Lauer’s behavior.
In his apology, which was read on air by Today Show co-host Savannah Guthrie, Lauer stated he was “truly sorry,” and that he realized “the depth of the damage and disappointment… left behind at home and at NBC.” The full transcript of the apology can be found below.
“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.
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.”
Lauer was let go from his position at NBC within days of the network receiving the original allegations, which has not been the case for many other Hollywood and media alums. “I have no idea why he was fired so quickly,” says Ball State Professor of Telecommunications Dom Caristi, “I wondered that myself.”
For comparison's sake, movie mogul Harvey Weinstein’s accusations came out in October, but he didn’t resign from the Director's guild of America until last week. Hollywood director Brett Ratner was remover from the Wonder Woman sequel almost a month after his allegations came out.
Sources: Mercury News, Washington Post, NY Times
Image: Page Six
