The shocking news of NBC anchor and journalist Matt Lauer's termination made headlines recently. Lauer has been one of the hosts for the Today Show or twenty years and also the contributor for Dateline NBC.

Lauer's unexpected firing was a result of a detailed complaint stating that Lauer sexually harassed a female colleague.

Matt Lauer Issues Public Apology

At first, the journalist remained quiet about the allegations when the news broke.  However, he recently issued a statement, admitting that some of the complaints against him were true.

Lauer released an official statement, apologizing to the woman who accused him while also acknowledging that he is "embarrassed and ashamed" of his actions.

"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. As I am writing this I realize the depth of the damage and disappointment I have left behind at home and at NBC," Lauer wrote.

Two more women have come forward and accused Lauer of acting inappropriately toward them. One claimed that Lauer exposed his genitals to her. Like his first accuser, they both have chosen to remain anonymous.

"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 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," he continued.

Fallen From Grace

Lauer is the second media personality to lose his job over allegations of sexual misconduct, the first being CBS anchorman and journalist Charlie Rose. Lauer enjoyed a celebrated career on NBC hat also provided multiple segments for him, including, Where in the World is Matt Lauer?.

NBC News chief, Andrew Lack, informed the other anchors and staff of Lauer's termination in a letter that stated the alleged misconduct took place during the 2014 Sochi Olympics.

Lauer's former co-host, Savannah Guthrie, and Hoda Kotb broke the news of Lauer's firing on Wednesday morning, stating that they were "shaken" and "in disbelief" over the accusations. 

Tags: Matt Lauer NBC Today show Dateline NBC nbc