Al Roker Unexpectedly Mentions Matt Lauer Two Years After the Today Show Scandal – A Genuine Blessing or Subtle Dig?
Al Roker Shares His Thoughts on Matt Lauer
Al Roker recently revealed that he rarely thinks about Matt Lauer since the former host was dismissed from the “Today” show in 2017.
During the Hallmark Channel and Hallmark Movies & Mysteries Summer 2019 TCA press tour, Roker spoke about his former colleague in an interview with Entertainment Tonight.
“I’m sure he’s doing well,” Roker told ET’s Katie Krause. “I don’t talk about it much, but we wish him the best.”
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- Savannah Guthrie shuts down rumors of Matt Lauer’s return to ‘Today,’ firmly stating: “He will never step foot in Today after the harm he caused me”
- Al Roker fights back tears discussing the LA fire and reveals a significant update in the police investigation
- Hoda Kotb unexpectedly reveals the real reason she left the Today Show: “It was all because of one person.”
Roker’s Continued Success at “Today” and Support for the Next Generation
Although Roker remains a key figure on “Today,” he has expressed his interest in guiding and mentoring upcoming broadcasters.
“No one really knows where media is heading,” he stated. “But in my opinion, the best strategy is to be as prepared as possible.”
Roker’s Response to the Matt Lauer Scandal
Roker has rarely addressed Lauer’s controversy apart from his initial reaction to Lauer’s public statement following his termination due to allegations of inappropriate behavior in 2017.
Lauer previously stated: “There are no words to express my sorrow and regret for the pain I have caused others by my words and actions. To those I have hurt, I am truly sorry. As I write this, I realize the depth of the damage and disappointment I have left behind at home and at NBC.”
At the time, Roker and his fellow “Today” co-hosts reacted to the news, saying: “We are still processing the news about a friend of 30 years, and we are all dealing with it in our own way. We’ll work through this together with you all.”
The Aftermath of Matt Lauer’s Scandal
According to Variety, multiple women had reported Lauer’s misconduct to NBC executives, but their complaints were allegedly ignored. NBC denied this, stating that “current NBC News management was never made aware.”
NBC News’ Stephanie Gosk reported in November 2017 that at least eight women accused Lauer, but the exact number remains uncertain due to the anonymity of the accusers.
Following the scandal, Lauer and his wife, Annette Roque, officially divorced in July. Suffolk County court records confirmed that Roque filed for divorce earlier that month after 21 years of marriage. The couple has three children: Jack (18), Thijs (12), and Romy (15).
Read More:
- Hoda Kotb’s tearful farewell on her last day at the Today Show—Simone Biles delivers a huge surprise, making Hoda cry even harder.
- Al Roker’s doctor reveals a “shocking” detail during his treatment: “He had developed an addiction.”
- Al Roker’s daughter, Courtney Roker Laga, a chef and recipe developer, harshly criticizes her father’s cookbook: “I wouldn’t dare follow his recipes.”
NBC Erases Lauer’s Legacy from “Today”
To mark the 25th anniversary of “Today” at Studio 1A, NBC released a five-minute video showcasing memorable moments from the show. Notably, Lauer was entirely omitted from the footage, despite his more than 20-year tenure with the program.
While Al Roker’s mention of Matt Lauer may appear to be a simple well-wish, some speculate whether it was a subtle reminder of their diverging paths. As Roker continues to thrive in his career, Lauer remains largely absent from the media industry. What do you think about this situation? Share your thoughts below!
