Pennsylvania fans of NBC’s “The Today Show” were likely saddened to learn that star Matt Lauer was fired by the network for alleged sexual misconduct. Lauer’s firing comes as part of a wave of sexual harassment cases sweeps through the entertainment, political and media sectors.
According to news sources, an NBC employee came forward and filed a complaint with NBC against Lauer, alleging that he engaged in sexual misconduct while they were both at the 2014 Sochi Olympics. The victim alleged that the behavior continued after both had returned home.
NBC learned of the allegations and fired Lauer shortly thereafter. The network stated that it cannot tolerate sexual harassment regardless of who the perpetrator might be. Lauer’s former show colleagues Samantha Guthrie and Hoda Kotb were left to inform the viewing public about what happened . They read a letter that was written by Andy Lack, the news chairman at NBC. Lauer had a $20 million per year contract with the network that was supposed to extend into 2018.
Sexual harassment in the workplace is illegal under state and federal law. When people are the victims of this type of behavior, the work environment may become hostile, making it difficult for the victims to be able to do their jobs. People who are the victims of hostile working environments or other forms of sexual harassment may benefit by talking about what happened to them with an experienced employment law attorney who may analyze what happened and assess whether or not it could form the basis for a legal claim for damages.
Source: FOX News, “Matt Lauer fired from ‘Today’ for ‘inappropriate sexual behavior’ after accuser comes forward in secret meeting“, Sasha Savitsky, Nov. 29, 2017
