Matt Lauer lives a quiet, low-profile life centered in the Hamptons, New York, far removed from the massive studio lights of Rockefeller Center where he once reigned as the highest-paid face of morning television. Fired abruptly by [NBC News] in November 2017 following severe allegations of workplace sexual misconduct, Lauer has not returned to regular broadcasting. Instead, he spends his time managing real estate, co-parenting his children, and maintaining a tight-knit, highly restricted circle of friends.
Rumors periodically bubble up regarding a potential media return, but he remains out of the formal television landscape. His post-NBC trajectory involves significant asset restructurings, high-profile real estate sales, and a complete pivot away from public view.
The 2017 Exit and Immediate Fallout
The collapse of Lauer's media career happened swiftly on November 29, 2017, when NBC executives announced they had terminated his contract after receiving a detailed complaint from a colleague. Additional allegations surfaced shortly after from other former employees, shattering his two-decade legacy as the co-anchor of the Today show.
Because NBC fired him for cause, Lauer received no severance payout for the remainder of his multi-million dollar contract. Within two years of the firing, his marriage to Dutch model Annette Roque also ended. Roque filed for divorce in 2019, and the legal dissolution finalized later that year, concluding a marriage that produced three children: Jack, Romy, and Thijs.
Real Estate Restructuring and Wealth Management
A major component of Lauer's post-NBC life has been liquidating and reorganizing his massive property portfolio. At the height of his career, his real estate holdings spanned multiple luxury properties in New York City and Long Island.
- Manhattan Apartment: Shortly after his termination, Lauer listed his four-bedroom Upper East Side apartment, eventually selling the property to distance himself from his primary New York City workstation hub.
- The Hamptons Estate: For years, Lauer owned a sprawling compound in North Haven, New York, often referred to as the "Compound." In 2022, he sold this massive estate for a reported $40.9 million.
- Sag Harbor Property: He retained ties to horse farms and rural acreage on Long Island, managing equestrian properties alongside his ex-wife to support their daughter's competitive riding career.
Even without his annual NBC salary, these high-value real estate transactions and accumulated historical earnings left him with a substantial net worth, ensuring financial security despite his permanent exile from commercial broadcasting.
Personal Life, Relationships, and Daily Routine
Lauer shifted from a hyper-exposed public figure to a private individual who rarely grants interviews or makes public appearances. He resides primarily in the greater Hamptons area, focusing on personal relationships and family.
Following his divorce from Roque, Lauer entered a long-term relationship with Shamim Abas, an international public relations and events executive. Sources close to the couple note that they maintain a steady relationship, balancing Abas's professional commitments with Lauer's secluded daily routine.
He has also leaned heavily on a few trusted confidants from his past, maintaining close bonds with select industry peers like veteran broadcaster Al Roker. While many former colleagues publicly distanced themselves from him following the 2017 scandal, a small inner circle remains part of his private life.
Is a Media Comeback Possible?
Media industry watchers frequently speculate about whether disgraced anchors can ever rehabilitate their public images enough to return to screens. While figures like NBC News have completely closed the door on any association with him, periodic reports suggest Lauer has weighed alternative avenues in digital media or behind-the-scenes consulting.
Publicly, however, no network or major streaming platform has offered him a platform. The severe nature of the 2017 allegations continues to create an insurmountable barrier within mainstream corporate media boardrooms. Consequently, his status remains frozen: wealthy, retired by force, and entirely detached from daily journalism.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Matt Lauer still receive money from NBC?
No. Because NBC terminated his employment for cause, he forfeited the remaining balance of his contract and received no severance package. His current financial standing relies entirely on past earnings and real estate investments.
Where does Matt Lauer live now?
He lives primarily in the Hamptons region of Long Island, New York, where he has spent most of his time since leaving television, focusing on his children and personal properties.
Is Matt Lauer married?
No. He divorced his second wife, Annette Roque, in 2019. He has since been in a relationship with public relations executive Shamim Abas.
Will Matt Lauer ever return to television?
There is no indication of an official return to television. While industry insiders occasionally report on his personal thoughts regarding the media landscape, no television network has expressed willingness to hire him.
