Matt Lauer apologises after 'inappropriate sexual behaviour' claims

Matt Lauer, the long-time host of the 'Today' show, has issued a statement after being fired by NBC News over allegations of inappropriate sexual behaviour.

In the statement issued, Lauer feels "sorry" for the "pain" he has caused after he was accused of "inappropriate sexual behaviour in the workplace", according to The Independent.

Lauer said, "Some of what is being said about me is untrue or mischaracterised, but there is enough truth in these stories to make me feel embarrassed and ashamed. I regret that my shame is now shared by the people I cherish dearly."

Lauer also said he is using time and soul searching to make it his "full-time job" now to start to "repair the damage" he has caused.

"Repairing the damage will take a lot of time and soul searching and I'm committed to beginning that effort. It is now my full-time job. The last two days have forced me to take a very hard look at my own troubling flaws. It's been humbling. I am blessed to be surrounded by the people I love. I thank them for their patience and grace," noted Lauer.

Lauer was fired from NBC, after a woman lodged a complaint of "inappropriate sexual behavior in the workplace" against him.

In a statement, NBC News Chairman Andy Lack called this the first complaint about his behavior in over 20 years and acknowledged that it may not be the last.

Lauer is facing growing accusations that include one person claiming that he had summoned her to his office then dropped his pants. When she declined to do anything, he reprimanded her for not engaging in a sexual act.