U.S. television host Billy Bush has been fired from his job on NBC's "Today" show, following the release of a tape in which he could be heard having a lewd conversation about women with real estate tycoon Donald Trump, now the Republican U.S. presidential nominee.
Bush was suspended from the NBC morning show after the tape emerged earlier this month.
NBC announced the departure of Bush in a note to employees Monday, saying he is "a valued colleague and longtime member of the broader NBC family. We wish him success as he goes forward."
On the 2005 tape, Bush, who at the time worked for the TV show "Access Hollywood," is heard laughing as Trump talks about grabbing, fondling and kissing women. Trump has since denied ever abusing women.
After the tape came out, Bush said he was "embarrassed and ashamed" by his behavior. In a statement Monday, Bush said he is "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."
The 45-year-old television host is the nephew of former President George H.W. Bush and cousin of former President George W. Bush.
