Matt Lauer to stay on 'Today'

NEW YORK, April 6 (UPI) -- Matt Lauer confirmed he has signed a new long-term contract with NBC News, which will keep him on the "Today" show in New York.

"Truth be told, I was developing an idea for a new show, where viewers could tune in every morning and see someone they know lose a little more of his hair every single day right in front of their eyes, but then I thought I could just stay here and do that," Lauer told his co-stars Ann Curry and Al Roker on Friday's edition of the show. "This is my family. I love this job, I love working with you guys. ... I'm excited. Let's keep going."

Lauer did not discuss the terms of his contract or say how many years he would be staying on the show, but Curry teased him about his "huge bit of great news," saying, "We're stuck with you for a long time, so let's have some fun."

"It was either you or Keith Olbermann," Roker quipped, referring to the recently ousted Current TV political commentator.

"You made out all right," Lauer replied.

"Thank goodness," Roker laughed.

Lauer has co-anchored the "Today" show since Jan. 6, 1997. He joined the morning program in January 1994 as a news reader.