Matt Lauer’s journey to prominence in network television wasn’t a sudden success. He began his career as a production assistant at a local station in West Virginia and progressed to on-air news delivery. By the early 1980s, he was anchoring local newscasts and solidifying his reputation in New York City by the decade’s end.
In 1992, Lauer joined NBC, co-hosting local broadcasts such as “Today in New York” and “Live at Five.” This period also included his eventual transition to NBC’s national morning show, “Today,” where he remained until his career collapse in 2017.
In a matter of hours, he shifted from being a highly regarded television figure to one facing severe backlash. The serious allegations against him led to an abrupt exit from the public eye, raising questions about his fate. Read on to understand the disturbing elements surrounding Matt Lauer’s downfall.
Matt Lauer amassed millions as a beloved TV figure
Upon his arrival at “Today,” Lauer quickly climbed to prominence, remaining at the top for years. By November 2016, he secured a contract extension through 2018, reportedly earning $20 million annually, placing him among the highest earners in television alongside well-known figures like Dr. Phil and Ellen DeGeneres.
Notably, this lucrative contract came just months after he faced severe criticism for moderating the NBC News’ Commander-in-Chief Forum. He received backlash for allegedly biased questioning of Hillary Clinton and for being overrun by Donald Trump during their interaction, which sparked mockery on social media under the hashtag #LaueringTheBar. Despite this controversy, Lauer’s career seemed secure until events that followed proved otherwise.
Sexual misconduct allegations shook NBC
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In November 2017, just when his career peaked, a report from Page Six emerged, alleging that he sexually harassed a female colleague during the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi. The complaint was filed directly with NBC’s HR department, and the evidence presented was compelling enough that Lauer was terminated that very week.
Years later, investigative journalist Ronan Farrow expanded on these allegations in his 2019 book, “Catch and Kill.” He included an interview with Brooke Nevils, Lauer’s accuser, who disclosed shocking details about the alleged incident, claiming that Lauer had committed anal rape against her without the use of lubricant, leaving her in severe pain during the encounter.
Initially, Matt Lauer denied the accusations
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As reported by NBC News, following the first complaint against Matt Lauer, human resources searched for any earlier grievances or settlements related to him, but found nothing.
The next step saw NBC executives confront Lauer with the allegations. Initially, he denied any wrongdoing; a non-identified executive remarked that he was bewildered and couldn’t recall any incidents.
Later, Lauer acknowledged a sexual encounter with Brooke Nevils but disputed her assertion that it was non-consensual. In a 2019 statement to Variety, he firmly denied any assault claims, stating, “It began when she came to my hotel room very late one night in Sochi, Russia. We engaged in mutual sexual acts.”
Termination for ‘inappropriate sexual behavior’
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Following the initial report of Matt Lauer’s alleged misconduct, NBC News quickly terminated his employment. Andy Lack, the chairman of NBC News, communicated via memo, which Samantha Guthrie, Lauer’s co-host, shared with viewers on “Today.” A visibly emotional Guthrie expressed sadness over the situation.
Lack stated that they had received a comprehensive complaint about Lauer’s inappropriate behavior at work. He explained that upon examining the allegations, it was clear Lauer had breached NBC’s standards. Although this was the first report of such behavior in his over 20 years at NBC, it suggested a pattern might exist, meriting the decision to let him go.
Additional accusers come forward
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After the initial allegations, more women came forward with similar accusations against Lauer. Then, Variety revealed shocking stories from additional accusers, including one incident where a woman claimed Lauer exposed himself and another who said he gifted her a sex toy with explicit instructions. Stephanie Gosk from NBC mentioned that Lauer’s victims could number as many as eight.
Lauer eventually released a statement to NBC News, which Savannah Guthrie conveyed on “Today.” He expressed sorrow for the pain caused to others, admitting, “To those I have hurt, I am truly sorry,” while also asserting that not everything reported was accurate. “Some accounts are untrue or misrepresented, but there’s enough truth in them that I feel embarrassed and ashamed.”
Claims of complicity from NBC executives
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In the detailed exposé by Variety, several women claimed they had raised their issues about Lauer to higher-ups without seeing any action taken. Linda Vester, an NBC correspondent, corroborated this narrative two years later, a story that Ronan Farrow elaborated on.
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In her appearance on Fox News, Linda Vester discussed Ronan Farrow’s 2019 book, “Catch and Kill,” revealing that NBC was aware of Matt Lauer’s problematic behavior. Vester, a former NBC News correspondent, expressed disbelief at the network’s claims of ignorance regarding Lauer’s actions, stating, “We all knew Matt was dangerous.” She insisted that avoiding Lauer was common knowledge among NBC staff.
A shocking aspect of Lauer’s case was the reported existence of a button at his desk that could lock his office door, preventing exits while blocking entry from others. While Lauer denied these allegations, an NBC memo confirmed this feature is standard in executive offices at the network, designed for convenience.
The End of Lauer’s Marriage
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Matt Lauer’s television career faced a significant fallout from numerous sexual misconduct allegations, which also led to the end of his 20-year marriage to model Annette Roque. Following his dismissal from NBC, the couple officially separated, although reports suggest they had been living apart even before then, leading Roque to file for divorce in 2019.
Insiders noted that Roque had long considered ending the marriage, indicating that she had endured much distress during their time together. There were reports of Lauer’s infidelities, including alleged affairs early in their relationship. Roque had even filed for divorce previously but reconciled for the sake of their three children.
Financial Fallout After His Dismissal
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After Matt Lauer’s contract was terminated, there was speculation that he might receive a payout due to a renegotiated salary just a year prior. However, NBC officially stated that he would not receive any compensation due to the circumstances of his firing.
Despite not getting the financial support from NBC, Lauer’s wealth remained significant, with estimates around $80 million. However, he incurred substantial costs during his divorce, reportedly settling with Roque for between $20 million and $25 million. Sources indicate Lauer felt guilty and claimed he provided this compensation acknowledging the impact of the scandal, although he still believed the relationships he had were consensual and felt wronged by the situation.
Lauer’s Life After Scandal
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After his dismissal, Matt Lauer initially secluded himself in his Hamptons property. Over time, he shifted his focus to a luxurious sheep farm in New Zealand. Despite being far from his New York residence, Lauer faced negative media portrayals in 2018, including disputes with the government regarding a popular hiking path on his land. He argued that if hikers accessed his property, the New Zealand government owed him compensation.
His troubles didn’t end there, as he almost lost control of his $9.2 million estate. Authorities examined whether he met the criteria to keep the lease on his extensive 16,000-acre farm, known as Hunter Valley Station, because foreign buyers must demonstrate “good character.” This investigation involved communication between New Zealand’s Overseas Investment Office (OIO) and NBC to assess Lauer’s suitability as a property owner. While officials confirmed he wasn’t charged with any crimes, they criticized his behavior. “We do not condone the inappropriate way that Mr. Lauer has behaved,” stated an official from Land Information New Zealand.
PETA accused Matt Lauer of sheep mistreatment
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Aside from legal and public image problems, Lauer faced criticism from PETA in 2024 regarding the treatment of sheep on his farm. The animal rights organization released a statement condemning what they described as abusive practices, backed by undercover footage showing shocking incidents, including workers harming sheep and performing medical procedures without pain relief.
PETA pointed out the hypocrisy of Lauer’s farm, which was known for producing ZQ-certified wool, marketed as “the world’s most ethical wool brand.” PETA President Ingrid Newkirk harshly criticized Lauer, urging him to distance himself from the wool industry, suggesting that consumers choose vegan materials instead. Furthermore, when the New York Post contacted Lauer’s representatives, they asserted he was unaware of the alleged animal cruelty and was troubled by these allegations, launching his own inquiry into the operations at the farm.
Lauer reportedly aimed for a comeback on ‘Today’
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As Hoda Kotb considered leaving “Today,” Lauer spotted a potential opportunity to return to the show. Reports mentioned he was developing a plan to reclaim his former anchor position. A source disclosed to In Touch Weekly that Lauer believed he might have a chance at a comeback and viewed this as his moment to regain his status, convinced he could prove his innocence and win back public favor.
An earlier report also indicated Lauer aspired to join forces with Kotb during her exit. The persistent rumors suggest that Lauer remains hopeful about returning to the spotlight.
Rumors of Matt Lauer’s Return to “Today” Denied
A source claims that a project is in the works to restore Matt Lauer’s reputation, suggesting he could make a comeback on “Today.” However, an NBC insider dismissed these rumors, firmly stating that Lauer’s career at NBC is over and that he will not return to the network.
Matt Lauer’s Life After Scandal
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Seven years post-scandal, what is Matt Lauer’s life like? A recent report from People indicates he is attempting to reconnect with old friends and revive aspects of his previous life. According to a close friend, Lauer had previously distanced himself from many people but is now reportedly happy and thriving outside the spotlight, enjoying quality time with his girlfriend, Shamin Abas.
Lauer has maintained his opulent residence on Long Island, but he is said to have shifted focus to New Zealand, where he feels a greater sense of peace and productivity. He recently sold his Hamptons house to spend more time there, as noted by People.
Additionally, insiders reveal that Lauer is intentionally steering clear of public attention, opting for a low-profile lifestyle with Shamin to avoid further negative media scrutiny.
Sophia Michaels
