Billy Bush officially leaving ‘The Today Show,’ NBC confirms

For those wondering when the time of Billy Bush at “The Today Show” would be over, we now have a firm answer for you: Today.

After days of reported negotiations regarding an exit for the former “Access Hollywood” host (who came under fire a week and a half ago for a conversation with Donald Trump back with that show in 2015), he and NBC have agreed on a settlement. Terms of this agreement were not made clear, but it’s fair to assume that it is in the millions.

In a statement to its employees, NBC had the following to say:

“Billy Bush will be leaving the Today show’s 9 a.m. hour, effective today. While he was a new member of the Today team, he was a valued colleague and longtime member of the broader NBC family. We wish him success as he goes forward.”

Meanwhile, Bush added the following in his first public statements since he apologized for his role in the “Trump tapes” controversy:

“I am deeply grateful for the conversations I’ve had with my daughters, and for all of the support from family, friends and colleagues. I look forward to what lies ahead.”

“Today” probably knew that they were making this decision in due time in the days the Bush controversy first began, realizing that it would be harder to book celebrity interviews with Bush, and that his reputation would be in many ways changed as a result of it. While he had been a host in this industry for decades, he was for the most part known as a guy who let the interview subjects dominate the spotlight. It’s hard to see another show hiring him in the immediate future, but who knows? Maybe someone in due time will feel as though they could use the extra attention.

Do you think NBC made the right move in regards to Bush? Share in the comments. (Photo: NBC.)