Matt Lauer‘s Return to Television Faces Continued Resistance
Attempts by Matt Lauer to re-enter the television landscape continue to be unsuccessful, with network executives reportedly showing little interest in re-hiring him. The ongoing roadblocks stem from the circumstances surrounding his 2017 firing from NBC‘s Today show following allegations of inappropriate sexual conduct.
While some public figures, including those who have faced their own public scrutiny, have expressed sympathy and suggested a public desire for familiar faces, these voices haven’t translated into professional opportunities.Networks remain hesitant, citing concerns about advertiser reaction and the impact on their brand. A meaningful factor is the number of former colleagues who publicly identified Lauer as their accuser,contributing to a more damaging perception of his departure than a typical termination.
The situation highlights the complexities of accountability and public perception in the wake of the #MeToo movement. Despite Lauer possessing the financial resources and a family life – he has three children, Jack, Romy and Thijs – a return to television appears unlikely.
The article notes that a quieter life may ultimately be beneficial for Lauer, potentially reducing the risk of further public missteps and allowing him to focus on family. While withdrawal won’t erase past accusations, it could prevent further damaging headlines.
Ultimately, networks prioritize ratings and risk management, and currently, re-hiring Lauer is deemed too risky. As of now, Lauer’s comeback attempts appear stalled, and he is highly likely to remain off-air, living privately. Resources are available for those affected by sexual assault and abuse, such as RAINN (Rape, abuse & Incest National Network), offering a helpline and support for survivors.
