Kathie Lee Gifford has been one of Matt Lauer's most vocal defenders. On Monday, she went to bat for Lauer again, suggesting that she would "revolt" if he leaves "Today."
When asked on Monday if Lauer has been portrayed "evilly" in the press, Gifford told TMZ that "he has been, very unfairly portrayed, and that's what this was all about."
She continued, "Who are you gonna believe? Are you gonna believe some faceless accusers or the people who have worked year in and year out with him for, some people, for 30 years."
Gifford added that she hopes the embattled host stays at "Today." "I think there will be a revolt if he goes anywhere," she said.
She almost took out a full-page newspaper ad defending him, it was reported in April. Lauer, however, called it off. The "Today" host's spate of problems — from receiving the brunt of the blame for Ann Curry's messy ouster to being the subject of unflattering exposes — has been well-publicized over the past year. Lauer, however, has not been said to be considering leaving "Today," and the show has repeatedly defended him against negative press.
Lauer did reportedly seek advice from Meredith Vieira, a friend and former colleague, who encouraged him to stick it out.
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