Matt Lauer, once a household name in American journalism, was a prominent figure on NBC's "Today" show for over two decades. His career, however, took a dramatic turn in 2017 when he was fired amid allegations of sexual misconduct. Since then, many have wondered what Matt Lauer does for a living now and how he has navigated life after such a high-profile scandal. This article delves into his post-scandal activities, shedding light on his current endeavors and the impact of his past actions on his professional life. As we explore his journey, we’ll also discuss the broader implications of his case and how it fits into the larger conversation about accountability in the workplace.
Before diving into the specifics of Matt Lauer’s current career, it’s essential to understand the gravity of the allegations that led to his downfall. In late 2017, during the height of the #MeToo movement, Lauer was accused of engaging in inappropriate behavior with female colleagues. These allegations prompted NBC to terminate his employment immediately, marking the end of an era for the "Today" show and leaving millions of viewers shocked. The scandal not only affected Lauer’s career but also raised questions about workplace ethics, accountability, and the long-term consequences of such actions.
In the years following his dismissal, Matt Lauer has largely stayed out of the public eye, leading to widespread curiosity about his current activities. While some former celebrities attempt to rebuild their careers after scandals, others choose a quieter path. This article aims to provide clarity on what Matt Lauer does for a living now, exploring his professional endeavors, personal life, and the challenges he faces in a world that has changed significantly since his departure from NBC. Let’s begin by examining his early life and career to better understand the trajectory that led him to this point.
Table of Contents
- Biography of Matt Lauer
- Early Career and Rise to Fame
- Matt Lauer’s Role on the "Today" Show
- The Scandal That Changed Everything
- Life After the Scandal: What Does Matt Lauer Do Now?
- Matt Lauer’s Real Estate Ventures
- Exploring His Writing Projects
- Family Life and Personal Challenges
- Rare Public Appearances and Media Silence
- Matt Lauer’s Legacy in Journalism
- Conclusion: Moving Forward
Biography of Matt Lauer
To understand Matt Lauer’s journey, we must first explore his background and early life. Born on December 30, 1957, in New York City, Matthew Todd Lauer grew up in a family that valued education and hard work. His father, Nelson Lauer, was a businessman, while his mother, Marilyn Lauer, was a homemaker. From a young age, Lauer showed an interest in storytelling and communication, which eventually led him to pursue a career in journalism.
Below is a table summarizing key details about Matt Lauer’s personal life and career:
Full Name | Matthew Todd Lauer |
---|---|
Date of Birth | December 30, 1957 |
Place of Birth | New York City, New York, USA |
Education | Ohio University (B.A. in Telecommunications) |
Occupation | Journalist, Television Host, Author |
Years Active | 1980–2017 |
Early Career and Rise to Fame
After graduating from Ohio University in 1979, Matt Lauer began his career in journalism at WSMH-TV in Flint, Michigan. His talent for storytelling and on-camera presence quickly earned him recognition, leading to opportunities at larger stations. By the mid-1980s, Lauer had moved to New York City, where he worked as a reporter for WNBC-TV.
Breaking into National Television
Lauer’s big break came in 1992 when he joined CBS News as a correspondent for "CBS This Morning." His ability to connect with audiences and deliver news with clarity and empathy made him a standout talent. However, his tenure at CBS was short-lived, as NBC soon recruited him to co-host the "Today" show in 1994.
Matt Lauer’s Role on the "Today" Show
For over two decades, Matt Lauer became synonymous with the "Today" show, one of the most-watched morning news programs in the United States. As co-anchor alongside Katie Couric and later Savannah Guthrie, Lauer played a pivotal role in shaping the show’s success. His interviews with world leaders, celebrities, and newsmakers earned him a reputation as a skilled journalist and interviewer.
Key Contributions to the Show
- Conducted exclusive interviews with prominent figures, including U.S. presidents and international dignitaries.
- Hosted live coverage of major events, such as the Olympics and presidential elections.
- Introduced innovative segments that engaged viewers and boosted the show’s ratings.
The Scandal That Changed Everything
In November 2017, Matt Lauer’s career came to an abrupt halt when NBC fired him following allegations of sexual misconduct. Multiple women accused him of inappropriate behavior, including sexual harassment and assault, spanning several years. The allegations were part of a broader wave of exposés during the #MeToo movement, which sought to hold powerful men accountable for their actions.
Impact on NBC and the "Today" Show
The fallout from Lauer’s dismissal was significant. NBC faced intense scrutiny for its handling of the allegations, and the "Today" show experienced a decline in viewership as audiences grappled with the news. Lauer’s departure left a void in the morning news landscape, and his absence continues to be felt to this day.
Life After the Scandal: What Does Matt Lauer Do Now?
Since leaving NBC, Matt Lauer has largely retreated from public life, leaving many to wonder what he does for a living now. While he has not returned to television or journalism, he has pursued other interests, including real estate and writing.
Matt Lauer’s Real Estate Ventures
One of Lauer’s primary focuses in recent years has been real estate. He owns several properties, including a sprawling estate in the Hamptons, which he purchased for $36.5 million in 2014. Although he listed the property for sale in 2018, it remains one of his most valuable assets.
Investing in Property
- Owns multiple properties across the United States, including homes in New York and New Hampshire.
- Actively manages and maintains his real estate portfolio as a source of income.
- Engages in renovations and upgrades to increase property value.
Exploring His Writing Projects
In addition to real estate, Matt Lauer has ventured into writing. He co-authored a book titled *Where Were You?* with his former "Today" show colleague Al Roker. The book explores significant historical events and their impact on American culture. While not a bestseller, the project demonstrates Lauer’s continued interest in storytelling.
Other Creative Pursuits
Beyond writing, Lauer has expressed interest in exploring other creative endeavors, though details remain scarce. His focus appears to be on private projects rather than public-facing work.
Family Life and Personal Challenges
Matt Lauer’s personal life has also undergone significant changes since the scandal. He was married to Annette Roque, with whom he shares three children. However, the couple divorced in 2019, citing irreconcilable differences. Lauer has since focused on co-parenting and maintaining a low profile.
Parenting and Privacy
- Prioritizes spending time with his children despite limited public appearances.
- Keeps his family life private to shield his kids from media attention.
- Reports suggest he has taken steps to rebuild trust with loved ones.
Rare Public Appearances and Media Silence
Matt Lauer has made only a handful of public appearances since his departure from NBC. In 2018, he briefly spoke to a local newspaper in New Hampshire, expressing regret for his actions and acknowledging the pain he caused. However, he has largely avoided interviews or public statements, choosing instead to focus on personal growth and reflection.
Lessons Learned
Lauer’s silence underscores the challenges of navigating life after a high-profile scandal. While some critics argue that he should do more to address his past, others believe his decision to step back reflects a desire to avoid further controversy.
Matt Lauer’s Legacy in Journalism
Despite the scandal, Matt Lauer’s contributions to journalism cannot be overlooked. For over two decades, he brought important stories to millions of viewers and set a standard for excellence in broadcast journalism. However, his legacy is now intertwined with the allegations that ended his career, serving as a cautionary tale about the consequences of abuse of power.
Shaping the Future of Media
The Lauer case has sparked conversations about workplace culture, accountability, and the need for systemic change in the media industry. His story serves as a reminder of the importance of ethical behavior and the impact of one’s actions on others.
Conclusion: Moving Forward
So, what does Matt Lauer do for a living now? While he no longer works in journalism, he has turned his attention to real estate, writing, and personal growth. His journey highlights the complexities of rebuilding a life after a career-ending scandal and underscores the importance of accountability and redemption.
If you found this article informative, we encourage you to share it with others who may be curious about Matt Lauer’s current endeavors. Additionally, feel free to leave a comment below with your thoughts or questions. For more insights into the lives of public figures, explore our other articles on notable personalities and their careers.
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