Matt Lauer: The Rise And Fall Of A Television Icon

How Much Is Matt Lauer Worth?

Let’s talk about Matt Lauer, one of the most recognizable faces in American broadcasting. This former news anchor and TV host has amassed a net worth of $80 million. Matt became a household name during his two-decade run as the host of NBC's "Today" show, which began in 1997. However, his career took a dramatic turn in 2017 when allegations of sexual harassment led to his firing. Before the scandal hit and the subsequent divorce, Matt was once the highest-paid person on television, with a net worth that soared above $120-$150 million.

How Much Did Matt Lauer Make Per Year?

During his peak years on "Today," Matt Lauer was pulling in a staggering $28 million annually. That kind of paycheck made him one of the most well-compensated figures in television history. It’s not hard to see why—Lauer was the face of one of the most successful morning shows in the country. But, as we all know, money doesn’t always equate to happiness or stability. His career and personal life took a nosedive after the allegations surfaced.

Where Did It All Begin? Early Life and Career

Matt Lauer was born Matthew Todd Lauer on December 30, 1957, in New York City. His mom, Marilyn Lauer, owned a boutique, and his dad, Jay Robert Lauer, worked in the bicycle industry. Matt attended Ohio University but dropped out in 1979 when he landed a job at WOWK-TV in Huntington, West Virginia. His first role was producing the noon newscast, but by 1980, he was already on air, reporting for the 6 p.m. and 11 p.m. newscasts. Eventually, Matt returned to Ohio University, graduating in 1997 at the age of 39. Talk about perseverance!

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His Journey to Fame: The Career That Defined Him

After his early days at WOWK-TV, Matt moved on to bigger and better opportunities. He co-hosted the syndicated show "PM Magazine" in Richmond, Providence, and New York City. When that show ended in 1986, he worked on "Made in New York" for WNYW, though it only lasted 15 weeks. Matt’s big break came in 1992 when he joined NBC as co-anchor of "Today in New York." His versatility and charm caught the attention of network executives, leading to his eventual role as co-anchor of the national "Today" show in 1997.

As the face of "Today," Lauer conducted countless interviews with world leaders, celebrities, and newsmakers. He covered major events like the Olympics, presidential elections, and the tragic events of September 11. In addition to his work on "Today," Matt hosted a segment called "Where in the World is Matt Lauer?" where he traveled the globe, reporting from places like Bhutan, Easter Island, and the Great Wall of China. It’s safe to say he lived a life most of us can only dream of.

The Fall: NBC Firing and Sexual Assault Allegations

Everything changed in November 2017 when NBC fired Lauer following allegations of sexual harassment. An NBC employee accused him of misconduct during the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia, and claimed the behavior continued after they returned to New York. More allegations surfaced in the following days, and NBC eventually confirmed three additional cases dating back to 2000. This scandal rocked the media world and became a pivotal moment in the #MeToo movement. Matt’s once-gleaming reputation was shattered almost overnight.

Love and Heartbreak: Matt Lauer's Personal Life

Matt’s personal life has been as dramatic as his career. He was married to television producer Nancy Alspaugh from 1982 to 1988, but the marriage ended in divorce. He then dated another newscaster, Kristen Gesswein, until 1996. In 1998, he tied the knot with Dutch model Annette "Jade" Roque, who gained fame through Revlon ads. The couple faced challenges, including a brief separation during Roque’s third pregnancy in 2006, but they reconciled. However, after the sexual harassment scandal broke in 2017, the couple separated and eventually divorced. In 2019, Matt agreed to a $20 million settlement, and their divorce was finalized that September.

Where Does He Live? Matt Lauer’s Real Estate Empire

Matt Lauer has always had a taste for luxury living. For years, he split his time between a posh apartment in New York City and a home in the Hamptons. In 2004, he bought an NYC apartment for $5.9 million, which he sold in 2018 for $7.4 million—a nice profit! Out in the Hamptons, Matt owns multiple properties. In 2016, he sold a modest bayfront home in Southampton for $3.6 million. That same year, he dropped $36.5 million on a two-home compound in Sag Harbor, previously owned by Richard Gere. Gere had purchased the property for $6.9 million in 2005 and invested heavily in renovations, originally hoping to sell it for $70 million. Matt listed the home for $44 million in 2019 but still owns it today.

Matt also owns a 25-acre property in Sag Harbor featuring an 8,000-square-foot house, which was once listed for $18 million but is now priced at $12.75 million. And let’s not forget his 16,000-acre ranch in New Zealand, purchased with Annette Roque in 2017 for $9 million. After the scandal, New Zealand’s Overseas Investment Office investigated whether Matt breached their "good character" test for foreign buyers. Ultimately, officials concluded there wasn’t enough evidence to revoke his purchase.

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