Just one day after NBC fired its leading morning show host, Matt Lauer, since allegations of sexual misconduct by former employees, he has now come forward with a public apology that was read to all by his co-anchor, Savannah Guthrie.
In the video clip below, Savannah sits with Hoda Kotb, who has now filled in for Matt, where she reads his apology out loud: "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.”
The statement says that some of what has been said about him is “untrue or mischaracterized, but there is enough truth in these stories to make me feel embarrassed and ashamed.”
Adding: “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.”
When the accusations made headlines yesterday, Variety followed up with an article with even more women coming forward with stories about the morning show host. One woman claimed he invited her into his office and exposed himself, another said Matt gifted her with a sex toy that had a note explaining how he wanted to use it on her.