Let's talk about the recent whirlwind of shocking stories surrounding Matt Lauer. Among the most talked-about rumors is the alleged affair he supposedly had with his former Today co-star, Natalie Morales. Natalie, who's now a host for Access Hollywood, left the highly popular NBC morning show in 2016. Many people speculate that her departure had something to do with tensions brewing between her and Matt. Both Natalie and Matt have repeatedly denied these allegations, yet the rumors continue to swirl. Keep reading to get the full scoop on everything we know about this alleged affair.

Why Did Matt Stop Supporting Natalie?

Shortly after Natalie Morales decided to leave the Today show, sources started talking to Page Six, claiming it was partly because her alleged affair with the then-60-year-old Matt ended. "There’s speculation it’s one of the reasons why she’s moving… Matt didn’t want to work with her," an insider revealed at the time. Interestingly, Matt was once Natalie’s biggest supporter at NBC. However, that support abruptly stopped. Sources say there was "an awkwardness between Matt and Natalie." It seems like something went wrong after Matt had protected her for so long. People are left wondering what exactly caused this shift in their professional relationship.

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Natalie Denies the Allegations

When the story broke about the alleged affair, Natalie Morales, then 45, was understandably furious. Not long after the rumors started spreading, Natalie issued a strong statement denying any affair with Matt. “There is absolutely no truth to this completely absurd story. It is damaging, hurtful, and extremely sexist,” she said. “I have proven myself in all aspects of my job as a news professional and journalist, and I’m adding to my role, taking on three jobs with Access Hollywood Live and Access Hollywood, in addition to Today. This move was dictated by me and my desire to grow in my career. Any insinuations beyond that are uninformed.” Natalie made it crystal clear that her professional decisions were based on her career aspirations, not personal relationships.

Matt Also Denies the Allegations

Not long after Natalie issued her statement, Matt Lauer also released a denial. The disgraced news anchor said, “Every aspect of this story is untrue, and it’s frankly sad that someone would tell lies to harm everyone involved.” Noah Oppenheim, the NBC News President, even chimed in, saying, “Suggestions that Natalie’s new role and salary is anything but the result of her merit, is not only not true — it’s sexism in its ugliest form and it’s offensive.” Matt and Natalie both stood firm in their denials, emphasizing that the allegations were baseless.