“TODAY” host Savannah Guthrie read out a statement from Matt Lauer on Thursday’s show after it was confirmed he had been fired by NBC over sexual misconduct allegations.
Lauer, who has now been accused by multiple women of sexual harassment, said he is “truly sorry” and admitted, “There are no words to express my sorrow and regret for the pain I have caused others by words and actions.”
The statement continued, “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 my shame is now shared by the people I cherish dearly.”
The presenter’s statement comes as the New York Times claims at least two more women have accused Lauer of sexual harassment.
One complaint is believed to have come from a former employee, who said Mr. Lauer had summoned her to his office in 2001, locked the door, and sexually assaulted her.
RELATED: Matt Lauer Fired By NBC After Sexual Harassment Complaint
She told the publication that she passed out and had to be taken to a nurse. However, she failed to tell anybody what had happened because she felt “helpless, ashamed and didn’t want to lose her job.”
Lauer stepped out for the first time since being let go following multiple sexual harassment allegations. The reporter was seen meeting criminal law lawyer friend Eddie Burke Jr. still sporting his wedding band.
It was revealed on Wednesday’s “TODAY” show that Lauer had been fired as a result of the recent accusations made against him.
NBC News Chairman Andy Lack said in an email to staff, “On Monday night, we received a detailed complaint from a colleague about inappropriate sexual behaviour in the workplace by Matt Lauer. It represented, after serious review, a clear violation of our company’s standards.
“As a result, we’ve decided to terminate his employment. While it is the first complaint about his behaviour in the over twenty years he’s been at NBC News, we were also presented with reason to believe this may not have been an isolated incident.”
