Matt Lauer deletes Facebook, Twitter and Instagram amid sexual harassment controversy

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Matt Lauer: Allegations mount against the fired “Today” anchor

Matt Lauer has been fired from NBC’s “Today Show,” and less than 24 hours later, as many as 8 women may have come forward with more accusations of sexual misconduct. Here are salacious allegations and the former anchor’s response.

It appears now disgraced NBC anchor and host, Matt Lauer, has taken an extreme step to avoid public scrutiny. As of Thursday evening, the star had deleted all presence on social media.

Facebook, Instagram and Twitter accounts for Lauer were quietly deactivated as more and more women come forward with accusations of sexual harassment they experienced from him while they worked at NBC.

On Wednesday, it was announced on NBC's “Today” show that someone had come forward with allegations against the 59-year-old host. While no official word on what those allegations were has been confirmed by the network, it was egregious enough for him to be terminated immediately. Since that time, at least eight women total have come forward to NBC to share their story.

Premium Exclusive, East Hampton, NY - 20171130 Matt Lauer seen out for the first time since his firing from the Today show from multiple sexual harassment allegations. -PICTURED: Matt Lauer -PHOTO by: MATT AGUDO/INSTARimages.com This is an editorial, rights-managed image. Please contact Instar Images LLC for licensing fee and rights information at sales@instarimages.com or call +1 212 414 0207 This image may not be published in any way that is, or might be deemed to be, defamatory, libelous, pornographic, or obscene. Please consult our sales department for any clarification needed prior to publication and use. Instar Images LLC reserves the right to pursue unauthorized users of this material. If you are in violation of our intellectual property rights or copyright you may be liable for damages, loss of income, any profits you derive from the unauthorized use of this material and, where appropriate, the cost of collection and/or any statutory damages awarded (MATT AGUDO/INSTARimages.com)

“There are no words to express my sorrow and regret for the pain I have caused others by words and actions. To the people I have hurt I am truly sorry,” he wrote in a statement that his former co-hosts read on Thursday. “As I am writing this I realize the depth of the damage and disappointment I have left behind at home and at NBC. Some of what is being said about me is untrue or mischaracterized, 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.”

Since then, he was spotted near his home in East Hampton, N.Y., having a quick meeting with his lawyer. Later in the evening, Lauer appears to have made the decision to remove himself from social media amid the controversy. It’s unclear if there was anyone inciting moment that led to the decision or if the general situation was enough.