Is Matt Lauer Fired? Who is Matt Lauer? Where is Matt Lauer Today? Is the Morning Show Based on Matt Lauer?
by Sona | Updated Sep 13, 2023
Who is Matt Lauer?
Matt Lauer is a prominent American television news personality known for his extensive career with NBC News. He rose to prominence primarily as the co-host of "The Today Show," a role he held for two decades from 1997 to 2017. During this time, he became a household name and a trusted face for morning news.
Lauer's contributions extended beyond "The Today Show," as he was also a frequent contributor to "Dateline NBC," where he covered a wide range of investigative stories. Additionally, he played a pivotal role in hosting major televised events such as the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and the opening ceremonies of various Olympic Games. Matt Lauer's enduring presence in the world of television news made him a familiar and influential figure to audiences across the United States.
Name
Matt Lauer
Real Name
Matthew Todd Lauer
Date of birth
30 December 1957
Age
65 years old
Birthplace
New York, New York, United States
Spouse
Annette Roque (m. 1998–2019), Nancy Alspaugh (m. 1981–1988)
Children
Romy Lauer, Jack Matthew Lauer, Thijs Lauer
Parents
Robert Lauer, Marilyn Lauer
Siblings
April Lauer Stone
Height
5 ft 9 in (1.79 m)
Weight
71 Kg (156 lbs)
Profession
American TV personality
Nationality
American
Net Worth
$80 million
SPECIFICATION
DETAILS
Is Matt Lauer Fired?
Yes, Matt Lauer, a prominent figure in morning news as the anchor of "Today" for two decades, was indeed fired by NBC News in 2017. This decision came in the wake of a serious complaint from a female colleague who accused him of engaging in inappropriate sexual behavior during the 2014 Sochi Olympics.
The complaint was thoroughly reviewed and was deemed to be a clear violation of the company's standards, ultimately leading to his termination. This marked a significant moment in the MeToo movement as Lauer's firing highlighted the growing awareness and consequences surrounding allegations of sexual misconduct in the workplace.
Matt Lauer Early Life
Matt Lauer's early life began in the bustling metropolis of New York City on December 30, 1957. He was born to Marilyn Lauer, who ran a boutique, and Jay Robert Lauer, an executive in the bicycle industry. His educational journey led him to Ohio University, but his passion for television beckoned, prompting him to make a bold decision.
In 1979, Lauer dropped out of college to dive headfirst into a burgeoning television career. His debut in the industry took place at WOWK-TV in Huntington, West Virginia, where he initially served as a producer. However, his enthusiasm and talent quickly propelled him into the role of an on-air reporter by 1980, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey in broadcast journalism.
Matt Lauer Career
Matt Lauer's career in broadcasting spanned several cities and programs. He co-hosted "PM Magazine" in various locations, including Richmond, Providence, and New York City. Lauer also joined Robin Leach as the co-host of ABC's "Fame, Fortune and Romance," a spin-off of "Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous." He returned to local television, hosting shows in Philadelphia and Boston and reporting for ESPN and HBO.
In 1992, Lauer joined NBC, co-anchoring "Today in New York" and later becoming the co-host of "Live at Five" with Sue Simmons. He made occasional appearances as a newsreader on "The Today Show" and officially became a co-anchor in January 1997. Lauer's career extended to hosting programs on the Discovery Channel and MSNBC.
Throughout his tenure, he interviewed prominent figures, including Prince William, Prince Harry, Vladimir Putin, George W. Bush, and presidential candidates Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump. Lauer's annual segment, "Where in the World is Matt Lauer?" took him to various international locations, reporting on their significance.
Matt Lauer Age
Matt Lauer was born on December 30, 1957, making him 65 years old as of September 13, 2023. With his birth in New York City, Lauer has accumulated a wealth of life experiences and a successful career spanning several decades.
His age reflects a seasoned and accomplished individual who has left a significant mark in the realm of television news and broadcasting. Despite the passage of time, his impact and contributions to the industry continue to be remembered and acknowledged.
Matt Lauer Net Worth
Matt Lauer's net worth is estimated to be $80 million. During his peak time on TV, especially as the co-host of "The Today Show," Matt Lauer made an incredible yearly salary of about $28 million. This made him the highest-paid person on TV.
At the height of his career, he probably had a lot of money, possibly between $120 million and $150 million. Despite facing challenges in his career later on, his wealth is a clear sign of the impact he had in TV journalism. Even though he later faced controversies, his financial success is still an important part of his career.
Where is Matt Lauer Today?
After being fired in 2017, Matt Lauer has chosen to stay out of the public eye. He's been living in New Zealand, away from the media's attention. Lauer has also distanced himself from some of his friendships, especially after his former co-host Katie Couric's book came out, which made him lose trust.
He's in a transitional phase in his life, with his older children in college and his youngest in high school. Lauer is not actively working, which adds to his secluded lifestyle.
Is the Morning Show Based on Matt Lauer?
No, "The Morning Show" is not specifically based on Matt Lauer. "The Morning Show" is not directly based on Matt Lauer's personal experiences. Although there are parallels in the storyline, such as a prominent morning show host facing allegations of sexual misconduct, the series delves into more universal themes concerning workplace harassment, power dynamics, and the MeToo movement.
It aims to provide a broader commentary on the complexities of such situations in the media industry rather than being a direct reflection of Lauer's specific case. While there may be similarities, the show is a work of fiction that draws inspiration from various real-world events and issues.
Is Matt Lauer Fired? FAQs
Matt Lauer is a prominent American television news personality known for his extensive career with NBC News.
Yes, Matt Lauer was fired by NBC News in 2017 after a female colleague made a detailed complaint accusing him of inappropriate sexual behavior during the 2014 Sochi Olympics.
Matt Lauer has reportedly been living in New Zealand.
Matt Lauer was fired due to a detailed complaint of inappropriate sexual behavior during the 2014 Sochi Olympics, and subsequent allegations of sexual misconduct by multiple women.
Matt Lauer's net worth is estimated to be $80 million.