In the wake of the ongoing scandal involving statements about his coverage of the Iraq War, Brian Williams has been suspended from his job at NBC Nightly News
Brian Williams, the longtime chief anchor and managing editor of NBC Nightly News with Brian Williams, voluntarily took “a break” from NBC’s flagship news show a few days ago, presumably so he could insulate himself from the catcalls and flying tomatoes that came his way whenever he showed his face on the street. Now, NBC has made his self-imposed exile official by suspending him, without pay, for six months, according to Variety.
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If you’re just joining us, Williams has come under fire lately for making misleading statements about his time covering the Iraq war in 2003. Specifically, he claimed that he was in a helicopter that was shot down by an RPG. In reality, he didn’t so much get shot down as watch another group of people get shot down. He’s been condemned for the embellishment ever since a group of Iraq war veterans contested it early last week. Lester Holt, who stepped in after Williams’ last show this past Friday, will continue on as substitute anchor in the meantime.
There’s no telling whether Williams will ever be able to return to his job following a scandal of this magnitude. Suspending him is an act of damage control by the top brass at NBC, who clearly want to send a message that they won’t tolerate this kind of behavior in an employee responsible for reporting the news.
“As I’m sure you understand, this was a very hard decision,” wrote NBC News President Deborah Turness in an internal memo. “Certainly there will be those who disagree. But we believe this suspension is the appropriate and proportionate action.”
NBCUniversal CEO Steve Burke also made a statement which seems to open a backdoor for Williams should his reputation ever recover enough for a return.
"“This has been a painful period for all concerned and we appreciate your patience while we gathered the available facts. By his actions, Brian has jeopardized the trust millions of Americans place in NBC News. His actions are inexcusable and this suspension is severe and appropriate. Brian’s life’s work is delivering the news. I know Brian loves his country, NBC News and his colleagues. He deserves a second chance and we are rooting for him. Brian has shared his deep remorse with me and he is committed to winning back everyone’s trust.”"
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