Matt Lauer Newly Committed to “Soul-Searching”

Following the 24-hour whirlwind that has swept Today amidst a shocking scandal, former co-host Matt Lauer has spoken.

Lauer was fired by NBC News on Wednesday following reported sexual indiscretions. Today’s Savannah Guthrie read his statement on air this morning:

“There are no words to express my sorrow and regret the pain I have caused others by words and actions. To the people I have hurt, I am truly sorry..."

Full statement

Lauer’s confirmation of some of the allegations has shattered the image that America has come to love waking up to, and lumped him into a category with society’s lowest.

The former co-host is one of the most high-profile figures in the ring of powerful men facing sexual assault charges that has swept the country. His statement comes after three more women voiced their accusations against him in a Variety report published Wednesday, and The New York Times’ report that NBC received two more complaints about Lauer.

The statement was read on a number of competing morning shows including CBS This Morning and Good Morning America.

- Sydney Shuler