Meredith Vieira Recalls Learning Of Matt Lauer Sexual Misconduct Allegations

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Meredith Vieira recalls what it was like for her to learn of the sexual misconduct allegations against Matt Lauer. The former Today show host spoke to People magazine to promote her new gig as host of Fox’s syndicated game show 25 Words or Less.

It has been over eight-year since Vieira said good-bye to the NBC morning show, but she has only fond memories of the years she worked with Lauer. Learning of the allegations against him and his firing from the Today show, was extremely painful for Vieira.

“It was like a gut punch. I was in L.A., and my phone started going off at 4 a.m. I didn’t know what to make of all of it. It was a shock. Matt and I were very close. He was very kind to me. We both have similar senses of humor. We’re both sarcastic,” she expressed to the magazine.

A video clip of Lauer commenting on Vieira’s backside went viral not long after the disgraced host was fired. However, the former The View co-host insists she never felt uncomfortable or unsafe on set with her colleague.

“There was totally joking around. But I never took it as anything. We were like brother and sister. If somebody were a fly on the wall in any newsroom, they’d be shocked by the language, and by the gallows’ humor. You made a joke because otherwise, you’d implode when you’re covering something. Looking back, “you could take that moment and go, ‘Look, now can’t you see what you were dealing with?’ But I didn’t feel that at all.” the 65-year-old recalled to the weekly magazine.

Meredith Vieira is opening up regarding what it was like to learn of the sexual misconduct allegations against Matt Lauer. She is not, however, defining her current relationship with her former co-worker.

The game show host claims it is “complicated.” Vieira refers to the entire scandal as “sad” and “rough” for all parties involved. Instead of dwelling on the past, she is thrilled to be focused on her new job.

25 Words or Less is a game where a contestant attempts to get their celebrity partner to answer 10 questions in 25 words or less. Those interested in watching the show will need to check local listings for times.

What are your thoughts on Vieira being open about Lauer’s scandal?