Donald Trump tape leak: Billy Bush officially axed from Today Show after sexism scandal
BILLY BUSH has been officially axed from The Today Show in the US after his involvement in a leaked tape of Donald Trump making controversial jokes.
Billy Bush suspended after lewd Trump tape
The broadcaster’s dismissal from NBC was finally confirmed last night after several days of speculation.
He had already been suspended from the morning programme once the 2005 footage resurfaced.
"Billy Bush will be leaving the Today show's 9am hour, effective today," said Noah Oppenheim, NBC News’ senior vice president.
"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."
Billy Bush will be leaving the Today show's 9am hour, effective today
Bush - the nephew of Republican former President George H.W. Bush - had been filming an Access Hollywood segment with Trump in 2005 when they were seen making remarks about women that have dominated headlines over recent weeks.
"I am deeply grateful for the conversations I've had with my daughters, and for all of the support from family, friends and colleagues,” Bush said in his own statement.
“I look forward to what lies ahead."
The tape, first revealed by the Washington Post, saw Trump saying that when he was attracted to beautiful women, “I just start kissing them. It’s like a magnet.”
“Grab them by the p****. You can do anything,” he added.
In an interview with CNN last night, his wife Melania said the Republican candidate was “led on — like egged on — from the host to say dirty and bad stuff."
She added that her husband had issued her an apology, which she accepted.