Danny MattesonHow about $20 million a year and all the free helicopter rides you want? Sounds like a good deal and a good time, right?
It must have to Matt Lauer, as he's reportedly signed a deal with NBC that would not only pay him a pretty penny, but also take his commute to the skies. (Video via NBC)
According to the New York Post, Lauer and NBC reached the deal for him to stay with the "Today" show in June — with the stipulation that NBC would pick up the bill to fly him to his mansion in the Hamptons where he lives with his wife and kids.
The New York Post quotes an unnamed source saying: "NBC News chiefs want to do everything to keep Matt happy. They believe 'Today' has turned a corner and he is the key to its continuing success."
According to some, that corner was the controversial departure of Ann Curry in June of 2012. (Video via NBC)
Some have called her removal from the show a sort of conspiracy by the network. As New York Magazine notes, it was reportedly dubbed "Operation Bambi."
And outlets including Us Magazine speculated Lauer might have had a hand in Curry's exit — writing that "Matt didn't want her there" and that letting her go was "personal."
Lauer's popularity took a hit following the controversy, but the "Today" show's ratings have reportedly started to bounce back since — although Variety notes it still trails ABC's "Good Morning America."
Lauer's new deal is reportedly good through 2016. He's been with the show since 1994.
This story includes images from Tracy O / CC BY SA 2.0 and Michal Tuski / CC BY NC 2.0.
