Matt Lauer Accuser Exposes Harrowing Rape Allegations in New Book
A former NBC employee, Brooke Nevils, is shedding light on traumatic events from her past in her upcoming memoir, “Unspeakable Things: Silence, Shame, and the Stories We Choose to Believe.” This book, set for release on February 3, explores her allegations of sexual assault against former “Today” show anchor Matt Lauer, which she claims occurred during the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia.
Details of the Allegations Against Matt Lauer
Nevils details the harrowing experience she endured after a night out with Lauer and NBC colleague Meredith Vieira. She recounts waking up in a hotel room, feeling significant pain, and grappling with her perception of the night’s events. Initially, she dismissed her experience as a “misunderstanding.” However, upon reflection, she recognized it as a sexual assault.
Reflections on the Incident
- Nevils was an NBC talent assistant at the time of the incident.
- She obtained vodka shots during the evening with Lauer, creating a power imbalance that complicated her feelings.
- Despite the assault, Nevils did not initially label it as rape, instead describing it as “weird and humiliating.”
- Physical pain from the encounter remained a constant reminder of the traumatic experience.
The emotional toll of the incident led Nevils to maintain contact with Lauer, even visiting him in New York afterward. In her memoir, she critically examines her choices and the confusion surrounding her actions, stating, “Why, if an alleged victim was really sexually assaulted, would they continue a relationship with the perpetrator?”
The Aftermath: Reporting the Allegations
In November 2017, following extensive internal conflict and a growing awareness of other women’s allegations against Lauer, Nevils filed a formal complaint with NBC. The network quickly responded, terminating Lauer’s employment the same day, as confirmed by NBC News chairman Andrew Lack.
Broader Impact and Public Response
- Multiple women later came forward, adding to the allegations against Lauer, which also appeared in Ronan Farrow’s 2019 book, “Catch and Kill.”
- Nevils emphasizes the complexity of her situation, identifying herself as “nobody’s ideal victim.”
- Her mental health deteriorated post-complaint, leading to substantial personal struggles, including a stay in a psychiatric ward.
Through her writing, Nevils hopes to support others facing similar challenges. She states, “I know what it is to feel truly alone and ashamed.” She aims to reveal that such feelings are not a measure of one’s worth.
Conclusion: Healing Through Sharing
Ultimately, “Unspeakable Things” seeks to provide a voice for victims of sexual assault and shed light on the struggles they face. Nevils’ journey illustrates the enduring impact of such trauma and the importance of healing through acknowledgment and understanding.
