Matt Lauer releases first public statement after sexual misconduct allegations

Matt Lauer has released a public statement in response to the allegations of sexual misconduct that led to his ouster from NBC News' Today show.

In the statement, read aloud by Lauer's former co-host, Savannah Guthrie, Lauer apologised for his actions, saying "there is enough truth in these stories to make me feel embarrassed and ashamed."

He also pledged to repair the damage, adding it "will take a lot of time and soul searching" and calling it "my full time job."

"The last two days have forced me to take a very hard look at my own troubling flaws. It’s been humbling. I am blessed to be surrounded by the people I love," he said.

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The long-running Today host was terminated from NBC News for alleged "inappropriate sexual behaviour in the workplace," according to a statement from NBC News' chairman Andy Lack that cited one complaint from an anonymous female employee.

Since then, details of alleged inappropriate behaviour from other women surfaced in Variety and The New York Times.

Here is Lauer's full statement:

“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. As I am writing this I realize the depth of the damage and disappointment I have left behind at home and at NBC. Some of what is being said about me is untrue or mischaracterized, but there is enough truth in these stories to make me feel embarrassed and ashamed. I regret that my shame is now shared by the people I cherish dearly. 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. The last two days have forced me to take a very hard look at my own troubling flaws. It’s been humbling. I am blessed to be surrounded by the people I love. I thank them for their patience and grace.”