In what could be the most controversial comeback in morning television history, rumors are swirling that former Today show anchor Matt Lauer may be making a return to the NBC morning program. This news has sparked an uproar, as fans, critics, and NBC insiders all try to navigate the possibility of his return after a dramatic and widely-publicized exit in 2017.

For many, Lauer’s tenure at The Today Show marked an era of success for the morning news program. For years, he was a trusted face in American households, co-anchoring alongside Katie Couric and later Savannah Guthrie. His career, however, came to a sudden halt when allegations of sexual misconduct emerged, leading to his dismissal from NBC after over two decades on the air.

Now, just a few years later, the rumor mill has kicked into high gear. Speculation is rife that Lauer may be preparing for a return to the network, with insiders offering a mix of speculation and confirmation about what could be one of the most dramatic comebacks in television history.

The Shocking Rumors

The rumors of Lauer’s return started quietly but have recently gained momentum, as reports surfaced suggesting that NBC executives have been quietly discussing the possibility of bringing him back to the Today show or another program. Lauer’s name has reportedly come up in several internal meetings, and discussions about his potential re-hiring have been more serious than many fans would expect.

Multiple anonymous sources within NBC have spoken to media outlets, suggesting that the network is facing increasing pressure to revamp its morning programming, which has seen increased competition from other networks and streaming services. According to some insiders, Lauer’s return could be part of an attempt by NBC to restore ratings and revitalize the show’s image after years of public scandal.

“It’s not a matter of if but when NBC is going to need to address this situation,” one insider revealed. “Matt has been a part of the NBC family for so long, and there’s still a lot of value in that. The conversation about his return is happening behind closed doors, but it’s something that the network is really considering.”

Fans and Critics Are Divided

The news of Lauer’s potential return has split Today Show fans and critics down the middle. While some viewers are eager to see Lauer back on the air, praising his skill and charisma, others are firmly against the idea, citing the seriousness of the allegations that led to his firing. For many, his departure was a sign that NBC was taking allegations of sexual misconduct seriously, and bringing him back could be seen as undermining that commitment.

“I was a huge fan of Matt for years, but there’s no way I would support him coming back to Today,” said one passionate viewer on social media. “The allegations against him were serious, and it feels like NBC is forgetting that.”

Others, however, feel differently. “Matt Lauer was a great journalist and host, and it’s time for him to come back,” one fan tweeted. “People make mistakes, and if he has shown he’s learned from them, why shouldn’t he be given another chance?”

NBC’s decision to potentially bring Lauer back raises questions about the broader issue of forgiveness and accountability in the entertainment industry. Should someone who has been accused of misconduct be allowed to return to the public eye after some years of reflection and apology? Or does his return set a dangerous precedent about how seriously sexual misconduct allegations are taken?

NBC Under Pressure to Respond

NBC, which has remained tight-lipped on the rumors, is under intense pressure to respond. The network has been accused of mishandling the fallout from Lauer’s dismissal, with many questioning whether the organization was quick enough to act on the allegations. In the years since, Today has seen a string of changes, including the hiring of new co-anchors and a shift in programming direction. Ratings have fluctuated, and NBC has faced stiff competition from other networks, most notably ABC’s Good Morning America.

NBC executives are now tasked with weighing the potential backlash of bringing Lauer back against the possible benefits to the show’s ratings. As ratings continue to be a key metric for success, Lauer’s return could offer a chance to capitalize on nostalgia, restoring viewers who felt the absence of his presence on the program. However, the network’s decision would likely come with a significant amount of scrutiny, and it would have to balance commercial interests with the broader cultural conversation about #MeToo and accountability.

“Bringing Matt Lauer back would be a PR nightmare for NBC if they don’t handle it carefully,” said a media analyst. “They’ll need to be transparent about the process, address the allegations, and make sure they are showing a true commitment to ethical behavior. If they don’t, it could backfire and cost them more viewers.”

What Does This Mean for Lauer’s Future?

Lauer’s potential return is not just about him rejoining the Today show; it’s also a statement about how television networks—and society as a whole—are dealing with the fallout from sexual misconduct allegations. Could a comeback signify that public figures can successfully rehabilitate their image and return to the public sphere, or does it risk erasing the progress made in holding powerful figures accountable for their actions?

Lauer, for his part, has been silent on the rumors. After his departure from NBC, Lauer remained largely out of the public eye, offering an apology to the women involved in the allegations but keeping his personal life private. If he were to return to television, it would certainly raise questions about his accountability and whether the public—and his former colleagues—are ready to embrace him again.

Conclusion: A Controversial Comeback in the Making

The idea of Matt Lauer returning to the Today show has the potential to be one of the most controversial moments in morning television history. As NBC grapples with how to approach this delicate situation, fans, critics, and insiders are waiting with bated breath to see if Lauer’s rumored return becomes a reality. Whether his comeback would be seen as a redemption story or a setback for the #MeToo movement remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—if Matt Lauer does return, it will be a defining moment not just for The Today Show, but for the entire landscape of morning television.