On Wednesday, October 9, Matt Lauer found himself at the center of further allegations of sexual misconduct. Excerpts from an upcoming book by Ronan Farrow, former NBC staffer Brooke Nevils claimed that she was anally raped by Lauer while the two were on assignment in Sochi, Russia to cover the 2014 Winter Olympics.
Following the allegations, Lauer issued a lengthy “open letter” responding claiming that Nevils’ claims are “categorically false” and claiming that the sexual encounter was consual.
“In a new book, it is alleged that an extramarital, but consensual, sexual encounter I have previously admitted having, was in fact an assault,” Lauer wrote in a statement issued by his lawyer Libby Locke. “It is categorically false, ignores the facts, and defies common sense.
“There was absolutely nothing aggressive about that encounter. Brooke did not do or say anything to object. She certainly did not cry. She was a fully enthusiastic and willing partner. At no time did she behave in a way that made it appear she was incapable of consent. She seemed to know exactly what she wanted to do. The only concern she expressed was that someone might see her leaving my room. She embraced me at the door as she left.”
Lauer continued his response saying the claims were recycled and accusing Nevils of trying to gain a spotlight and money to sell books with her allegations.
“Now she is making outrageous and false accusations to help sell a different book and stepping into the spotlight to cause as much damage as she can,” Lauer wrote. “But Brooke’s story is filled with contradictions. Which Brooke is to be believed?
“Today, nearly two years after I was fired by NBC, old stories are being recycled, titillating details are being added, and a dangerous and defamatory new allegation is being made. All are being spread as part of a promotional effort to sell a book. It’s outrageous. So, after not speaking out to protect my children, it is now with their full support I say ‘enough.'”
Earlier Wednesday, TODAY hosts Savannah Guthrie and Hoda Kotb shared their disgust and disappoint over the recent allegations while also showing their support for Nevils. You can check out their reactions by clicking the link below.
