Can Matt Lauer Make A Career Comeback? Don Lemon Weighs In

Listen, folks, sometimes life throws us curveballs that test our resilience. That’s exactly what former CNN anchor Don Lemon is saying about Matt Lauer, the once-beloved cohost of NBC's Today show. Seven years after being embroiled in a sexual misconduct scandal that cost him his career, Don believes Matt could still make a comeback. On the January 22 episode of the “Hollywood Raw Podcast With Dax Holt and Adam Glyn,” Don opened up about Matt’s public image and his chances of returning to the spotlight.

What Don Lemon Had to Say About Matt Lauer

Don Lemon, who is no stranger to tough conversations, painted a vivid picture of Matt’s current standing. “Whenever I see Matt out and about, or even when we hang out—whether it's dinner with my husband Tim Malone or just casual hangouts—people absolutely love him,” Don revealed. “Women especially adore him. They're like, ‘Oh my God, can I get a picture? I miss you on TV.’”

Don went on to emphasize that while the general public seems to have forgiven Matt, the real hurdle lies within the industry itself. “It’s not so much the public that’s holding Matt back—it’s the people inside the business. There’s a fear there, and maybe it’s justified. But I think the public would welcome him back with open arms if given the chance.”

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Why the Public Loves Matt Lauer

Let’s be real for a second. Matt Lauer was a household name for decades. He wasn’t just a news anchor; he was someone people trusted to start their mornings with. Don pointed out that when he and Matt hang out, it’s impossible not to notice how much people still admire him. “I think the general public would absolutely accept Matt back. I truly believe that if he were to return, people would watch him. The ratings would likely be great,” Don predicted confidently.

But here’s the kicker: Don believes Matt’s best shot at a comeback might lie in the world of digital media. “If he could come back via a podcast or some other digital platform, he’d have the freedom to set his own course,” Don suggested. Interestingly, Don admitted that he only got to know Matt personally after the scandal broke. “That’s when I really started understanding who he is beyond the headlines,” Don shared.

A Look Back at the Scandal That Changed Everything

Now, let’s rewind to November 29, 2017. That’s the day Matt Lauer was fired from Today after a female coworker filed a detailed complaint accusing him of inappropriate sexual behavior during the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics. Savannah Guthrie and Hoda Kotb broke the news on air, reading a statement from NBC News Chairman Andy Lack. The statement was clear: “After a serious review, this complaint represents a clear violation of our company’s standards. As a result, we’ve decided to terminate his employment.”

Andy added that while this was the first formal complaint against Matt in over 20 years at NBC News, there were indications that it might not have been an isolated incident. Matt, who joined Today in 1994 and became cohost in 1997, was replaced by Hoda following his termination.

Details of the Investigation and Matt’s Response

Following a two-month investigation, Variety published a bombshell report that included testimonies from three women who claimed they were victims of Matt’s alleged sexual harassment. One producer familiar with the incidents alleged, “He couldn’t sleep around town with celebrities or random people because he’s Matt Lauer and he’s married. So, he’d exert power within his circle, knowing people wouldn’t complain.”

Matt broke his silence the day after the report surfaced, issuing a statement read on Today. In it, he expressed deep regret for the pain he had caused. “There are no words to express my sorrow and regret for the pain I have caused others by words and actions. To the people I have hurt, I am truly sorry,” he wrote. He acknowledged that some of the accusations were exaggerated, but admitted there was enough truth to make him feel “embarrassed and ashamed.”

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He concluded by saying, “Repairing the damage will take a lot of time and soul searching, and I’m committed to beginning that effort. It is now my full-time job.” Matt also admitted to having taken a “hard look” at his own flaws, realizing the impact they had on those around him.

Matt Lauer’s Life Post-Scandal

A year and a half after his firing, Matt’s marriage to Annette Roque ended in divorce in July 2019. By September of the same year, the split was finalized, and Matt began dating his current girlfriend, Shamin Abas. Despite the challenges, sources close to Matt say he’s living a peaceful life in the Hamptons. “He’s actually doing well and happy,” a friend told People magazine in November 2024.

Could Matt Lauer Return to Today?

With Hoda Kotb stepping down from her cohost role in September 2024, speculation arose about Matt’s interest in reclaiming his former position. An insider told In Touch that Matt is hopeful for a “miracle.” “He knows his chances are slim, but he’s convinced now is his moment to reclaim the throne at Today,” the source revealed.

Another source added, “There’s not a day that goes by when Matt doesn’t dream of returning to the show and taking over for Hoda. He still believes he was unfairly convicted in the court of public opinion and hopes others will eventually see it his way too.” Ultimately, Hoda was replaced by Today news anchor Craig Melvin, who began cohosting alongside Savannah Guthrie on January 13, 2025.

So, can Matt Lauer truly make a comeback? Only time will tell. But one thing’s for sure: Don Lemon believes the public is ready to embrace him again, even if the industry isn’t quite there yet.