NBC has released new information stating that although the four women accusing Matt Lauer of sexual harassment are credible, his conduct was never reported to the television network’s HR department.
The report stated that the investigation turned up no evidence that leadership at NBC News, Today or human resources "received complaints" about Lauer's "workplace behavior prior to November 27, 2017."
The anchor, who worked with the network for 23 years, was fired last November based on allegations of sexual harassment and "sexually inappropriate behavior."
The investigation included interviews with over 70 current employees and found that Lauer "frequently engaged in sexual banter or joking in open working environments," which may have contributed to an environment in which the women who experienced harassment didn't feel comfortable in reporting it to HR.
Since this inquiry has been released, NBC has taken time to reflect on the fact that changes need to be made in order to create a safe and supportive work environment for current and future employees.
News division chairman Andy Lack wrote in a letter to the faculty and staff of NBC News: "Like many of you, I am immensely proud of NBC News, its history, and the work we do. But – stepping back from the investigation – that history also includes a time when people were not comfortable coming forward to voice complaints about repugnant behavior. That is not acceptable. We cannot change the past. What we can do is learn from it, and try to make it right." ~Gabrielle Austin