“Connecting with people is the heart of storytelling.” — Matt Lauer
Matt Lauer is an American former television host and journalist, best known for his two‑decade tenure as co‑anchor of NBC’s Today show. Once one of the most prominent figures in morning television, his career ended abruptly in 2017 following allegations of sexual misconduct.
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Matthew Todd Lauer |
| Birthdate | December 30, 1957 |
| Birthplace | New York City, New York, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Age | 68 years (as of 2026) |
| Height | 5 ft 11 in (180 cm) |
| Hair | Bald (formerly brown) |
| Eyes | Brown |
| Education | Ohio University (B.A. Communications, 1997 – completed after leaving early in 1979) |
| Profession | Former Television Host, Journalist |
| Employer | NBC News (1992–2017) |
| Residence | Formerly New York; now lives privately |
| Years Active | 1979–2017 |
| Spouse | Annette Roque (m. 1998; div. 2019) |
| Children | Three |
| Awards | Emmy Awards (as part of Today show team) |
| Net Worth | Estimated $60–80 million |
| Zodiac Sign | Capricorn ♑ |
Parents, Siblings & Relatives
Matt Lauer was born to Marilyn Lauer, a boutique owner, and Jay Robert Lauer, a bicycle company executive. He grew up in New York City and later Connecticut.
Early Life & Education
Lauer attended Ohio University but left before graduating to pursue a career in television. He later completed his degree in 1997. His early interest in broadcasting led him to work in local news and entertainment programming before joining NBC.
Career Journey
Matt Lauer began his career in the late 1970s as a producer for local news programs. He worked at several stations, including WOWK‑TV in West Virginia and WNEW in New York, before joining NBC in 1992.
He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming co‑anchor of Today in 1997 alongside Katie Couric. Lauer became one of the most recognizable faces in American morning television, covering major events such as presidential elections, the Olympics, and international crises. He also hosted specials, including Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade coverage and Dateline NBC.
In November 2017, NBC terminated Lauer’s contract following allegations of sexual misconduct. The scandal ended his broadcasting career, and he has since lived a private life away from the public eye.
Major Works
- Today (NBC, 1997–2017)
- Dateline NBC (Contributor)
- Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade coverage (NBC)
- Olympic Games coverage (NBC)
Awards & Recognition
- Multiple Emmy Awards as part of the Today show team
- Recognition for coverage of major global events
Public Persona & Style
Matt Lauer was known for:
- Smooth, professional interviewing style
- Ability to handle both hard news and light entertainment segments
- High‑profile celebrity and political interviews
- Later, notoriety due to misconduct allegations
Lifestyle & Personal Insights
Lauer was married to Dutch model Annette Roque from 1998 until their divorce in 2019. They have three children together. Since leaving NBC, Lauer has largely avoided public appearances, living privately.
Physical Appearance
Standing at 5 ft 11 in, Lauer is recognized for his polished television presence, with a clean‑cut style that became iconic during his years on Today.
Salary & Net Worth
His estimated net worth is $60–80 million, primarily from his NBC salary, which at its peak was reported to be $20–25 million annually.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Matt Lauer? A former NBC journalist and longtime co‑anchor of Today.
What is he best known for? Hosting Today from 1997 to 2017.
Why did his career end? He was dismissed in 2017 after allegations of sexual misconduct.
What is his net worth? Estimated $60–80 million.
Related Figures
Legacy
Matt Lauer’s legacy is complex: he was once a trusted and influential morning show anchor, but his career ended in scandal. His story reflects both the heights of broadcast journalism and the consequences of misconduct in the workplace.
Timeline Overview
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1957 | Born December 30 in New York City |
| 1979 | Began career in local television |
| 1992 | Joined NBC News |
| 1997 | Became co‑anchor of Today |
| 2000s | Covered Olympics and major global events |
| 2017 | Fired from NBC following misconduct allegations |
| 2019 | Divorced Annette Roque |
| 2026 | Lives privately, away from broadcasting |
Sources
- NBC News Archives
- Wikipedia
- ABC News Profile
Interesting Facts
- Lauer’s peak salary at NBC was among the highest in broadcast journalism.
- He interviewed multiple U.S. presidents and world leaders.
- His dismissal in 2017 was part of a broader reckoning in media regarding workplace misconduct.
- He completed his college degree nearly 20 years after leaving school.
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