Lauer apologizes: ‘There are no words to express my sorrow and regret’

Matt Lauer on Thursday apologized after he was fired from NBC News in the wake of sexual misconduct allegations against him.

“There are no words to express my sorrow and regret for the pain I have caused others by words and actions,” Lauer said in a statement that was read on NBC’s “Today.”

“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.”

{mosads}Lauer said in the statement that some of the claims are “untrue or mischaracterized.”

“But there is enough truth in these stories to make me feel embarrassed and ashamed.”

Lauer said he regrets his shame is now shared by the people he cherishes.

“Repairing the damage will take a lot of time and soul searching and I’m committed to beginning the effort,” he said.

“It is now my full time job.”

Lauer said the last two days have forced him to take a hard look at his “flaws.”

“I am blessed to be surrounded by the people I love,” he said in the statement. “I thank them for their patience and grace.”

The longtime “Today” co-host was fired from NBC News earlier this week.

A memo released Wednesday from NBC News Chairman Andy Lack said a recent complaint about Lauer was the first one the network had received about the television host, but Lack also said there was “reason to believe this may not have been an isolated incident.”

A Variety story published later Wednesday said multiple women have accused Lauer of sexual misconduct.