Matt Lauer’s Life After Scandal: A Quiet Withdrawal and a New Chapter

Once a household name and the beloved co-anchor of NBC’s Today show, Matt Lauer’s career came to a screeching halt in 2017 after multiple allegations of sexual misconduct. His abrupt firing sent shockwaves throughout the media world, marking the end of an era for one of the most iconic morning shows in history. Nearly eight years later, Lauer has largely stayed out of the public eye, opting for a quieter life away from the media spotlight. However, recent events have stirred curiosity about his future, relationships, and life after the scandal.

The Fallout: Accusations, Friendships, and Personal Consequences

The allegations that led to Matt Lauer’s firing were both shocking and damning. Multiple women accused Lauer of inappropriate sexual behavior and creating a toxic workplace environment. These accusations ranged from lewd comments and unwanted advances to sexual harassment. The revelations came amid the larger #MeToo movement, which had begun exposing abuse and misconduct in the entertainment and media industries.

Lauer’s fall from grace was swift, with colleagues who had once praised his work distancing themselves, and the public’s perception of him shifting dramatically. Former co-workers, such as Katie Couric, admitted to severing ties with him, calling the situation a “betrayal” and acknowledging that they had never truly known the man behind the polished TV persona.

Savannah Guthrie, Lauer’s co-anchor for years, initially expressed support after his firing but later publicly condemned his actions. While Guthrie initially tried to stay in touch with him post-firing, reports suggest she refused to share the same space as Lauer when they were both invited to an NBC producer’s wedding in 2023. Despite their complicated history, no major tensions were reported during the reunion.

On a personal level, Lauer faced significant fallout as well. His marriage to model Annette Roque, which had already been strained, ended in divorce in 2019. The allegations took a toll on their relationship, with Roque leaving the United States for a time before returning to the family home in the Hamptons to raise their children. Though divorced, the couple remains focused on co-parenting their children: Thijs, Romy, and Jack.

Lauer’s Quiet Life Today

Since his firing, Lauer has largely remained out of the public spotlight, with few sightings or news reports about his activities. In December 2023, he was seen in The Hamptons, casually shopping in comfortable attire, a far cry from his former polished public image.

Sources report that Lauer is living a “very quiet lifestyle,” enjoying time on his boat and spending moments with his family. Bryant Gumbel, a close friend and former co-host of The Today Show, shared that Lauer “misses being in the mix” at times but doesn’t appear eager to return to television. Gumbel added during an interview in 2024, “I think he’s enjoying his kids and his life now. When I talked to him last, he was heading out on his boat.” It seems clear that Lauer is content with his current private life, finding solace in his family and his more laid-back routine.

The Question of a Comeback

While Lauer has kept a low profile, speculation about a potential return to the spotlight has arisen. Some reports suggest that Lauer may be quietly considering reentering the public eye, but Gumbel expressed skepticism about this possibility. “I don’t think he misses being on television,” Gumbel remarked. “He’s got a lot on his plate right now.” It’s uncertain whether Lauer will make a return to television or pursue other ventures, but for now, it seems his time in the media spotlight—especially as a network anchor—may be behind him.

Lauer’s Personal Life: Moving Forward with Shamin Abas

Since his divorce from Annette Roque, Lauer has been dating Shamin Abas, a publicist working in marketing and events in New York. The couple reportedly began their relationship in 2019, shortly after Lauer’s marriage ended. Abas has kept a relatively low profile, but she has been seen accompanying Lauer to various social events and has become a significant part of his life following the scandal. Their relationship has allowed Lauer to focus on rebuilding his personal life, away from the public scrutiny that once surrounded him.

While Lauer’s relationship with Abas hasn’t been as publicly scrutinized as his previous marriage, it marks a new chapter for the former TV anchor. Sources close to Lauer have indicated that he is in a more positive and content place in his life, finding stability in his relationship with Abas and in his role as a father.

What’s Next for Matt Lauer?

The question of whether Matt Lauer will ever return to the public spotlight remains unanswered. After years of being one of the most well-known faces in television news, Lauer now seems focused on a quieter, more private life. While some media outlets have speculated about a potential comeback, both Gumbel and Lauer’s own actions suggest that his time in the public eye may be behind him for good.

As Lauer continues to navigate life after his firing, the media world remains curious about what his next move will be. Will he continue his quiet life, or will the allure of the spotlight pull him back into the public eye? Fans and critics alike will be watching closely to see if Lauer reappears in the media and, if so, whether he can overcome the scandal that defined his exit from Today.

A Lasting Legacy: Matt Lauer’s Impact and the Aftermath

While Lauer’s fall from grace was sudden and dramatic, his legacy in television news will not be easily forgotten. As the former anchor of Today, Lauer was a familiar and trusted figure in the homes of millions of viewers. His interviews, ranging from lighthearted celebrity chats to hard-hitting political discussions, made him a key figure in American broadcast journalism for over two decades.

The #MeToo movement and the revelations about Lauer’s behavior left a lasting impact on his career. However, the scandal also highlights the evolving nature of workplace culture and the need for accountability in media. While the full impact of his actions continues to be debated, the personal toll Lauer’s behavior took on those involved remains undeniable.

As Lauer continues his quieter life, the questions surrounding his legacy will persist. For now, his days on television may be behind him, but his journey toward redemption—if he chooses to pursue it—will continue to be watched closely by both fans and critics.

Conclusion: A New Chapter for Lauer

Matt Lauer’s post-scandal life has been marked by personal growth, reflection, and a shift away from the public eye. As he enjoys a quieter life with Shamin Abas and focuses on his family, it remains to be seen whether he will reenter the media world or continue to embrace his new, low-profile lifestyle. However, one thing is clear: the scandal that changed the trajectory of his career has not defined him in totality. As Lauer moves forward, the world will be watching to see what comes next for this former broadcast giant.