Matt Lauer, once a household name as the co-anchor of the “Today” show, has been living a markedly different life since his dismissal from NBC six years ago.
After facing allegations of sexual misconduct and a dramatic fall from grace, Lauer has transitioned into a quieter existence, away from the media spotlight. This article explores Lauer’s current life, his relationships, and his attempts at rebuilding his personal and professional world.
Life After “Today”
After being fired from the “Today” show in 2017 following allegations of inappropriate sexual behavior, Matt Lauer, now 65, has significantly altered his lifestyle.
Sources close to Lauer reveal that he has cut ties with many former friends and colleagues, even those who supported him during the initial scandal. This reclusive behavior has allowed Lauer to maintain a semblance of normalcy, albeit vastly different from his high-profile life before.
A Quiet Lifestyle
Despite the upheaval, Lauer is said to be living “a fairly good life,” though it is much quieter than before. He has retained a close relationship with his children and continues to manage the horse farm he once shared with his ex-wife, Annette Roque, on Long Island.
Their co-parenting and shared responsibilities at the farm indicate a successful navigation through their post-divorce relationship. Additionally, Lauer has sold his Hamptons home, preferring to spend more time at his property in New Zealand, which he finds peaceful and conducive to his productivity.
Relationship with Shamin Abas
Lauer’s personal life includes a steady relationship with Shamin Abas, whom he began dating in 2019. The couple maintains a low profile, consciously avoiding public scrutiny. Abas, a successful businesswoman with her international PR and events firm, complements Lauer’s desire for privacy.
Despite the solid relationship, insiders suggest that marriage might not be in their immediate future, as Abas continues to lead a busy life in the Hamptons with her professional commitments and hobbies, including competitive horse jumping.
Professional Reassessment
Though Lauer has distanced himself from many of his former media contacts, he remains connected with Bryant Gumbel, who has been a supportive friend throughout his ordeal. Lauer has hinted at a potential return to media, possibly through a podcast or production work.
However, he acknowledges the challenges and the skepticism that might greet such a comeback. Friends suggest that he is cautiously exploring opportunities, inspired by figures like Megyn Kelly who have reinvented their careers independently.
Time with Family
Spending quality time with his children is a priority for Lauer. His sons, Thijs (17) and Jack (22), and daughter, Romy (20), have a healthy and loving relationship with their father. This bond has been a cornerstone of Lauer’s life post-scandal, providing him with a sense of stability and purpose.
The Allegations and Aftermath
The allegations against Lauer were first brought to light by Brooke Nevils, a former NBC employee, who accused him of rape during the 2014 Sochi Olympics. These claims, detailed in Ronan Farrow’s book “Catch and Kill,” were followed by additional accusations from other women.
Lauer has consistently maintained that his encounters were consensual, but the fallout from these allegations led to his abrupt departure from NBC and a subsequent period of intense public scrutiny.
Property and Financial Changes
In the wake of his dismissal, Lauer made significant changes to his property holdings. He sold his Manhattan apartment and the Sag Harbor estate, signaling a shift towards a more secluded lifestyle.
His New Zealand property, Hunter Valley Station, remains a refuge where he spends considerable time, appreciating its tranquility and distance from his previous life in the public eye.
Ongoing Projects and Future Prospects
Lauer continues to work on personal projects, with encouragement from friends like Gumbel. While he has expressed a desire to return to the media, possibly through independent ventures, he is aware of the limited opportunities and the potential backlash.
Despite these challenges, Lauer remains engaged with current affairs and the news industry, a passion that seems undiminished by his circumstances.
Conclusion
Matt Lauer’s life today is a stark contrast to his days as a prominent TV anchor. Adjusting to a quieter existence, he focuses on family, personal relationships, and selective professional endeavors. While the road to a full public comeback appears fraught with obstacles, Lauer seems content with his new normal, finding peace and purpose outside the media spotlight.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What has Matt Lauer been doing since he was fired from the “Today” show?
Matt Lauer has been living a quieter life, focusing on his family, managing his horse farm on Long Island, and spending time at his property in New Zealand. He maintains a close relationship with his children and girlfriend, Shamin Abas.
2. Is Matt Lauer planning a return to media?
Lauer has expressed interest in potentially returning to the media, possibly through a podcast or production work. However, he acknowledges the challenges and skepticism that might accompany such a move.
3. How has Lauer’s social circle changed since the scandal?
Lauer has drastically changed his social circle, distancing himself from many former friends and colleagues. He remains close to a few supportive friends, like Bryant Gumbel, who have helped him through his difficult times.
4. What is Lauer’s relationship status with Shamin Abas?
Matt Lauer and Shamin Abas have been dating since 2019. They maintain a low profile to avoid public scrutiny. While their relationship is strong, there are no immediate plans for marriage as Abas is busy with her professional life and hobbies.
5. How does Lauer spend his time with his children?
Lauer prioritizes spending quality time with his children, Thijs, Jack, and Romy. He maintains a loving and healthy relationship with them, which has been a significant source of stability and support in his life post-scandal.