MSNBC Paid Severance To Chris Matthews Sex Harassment Accuser

WASHINGTON, DC — Chris Matthews, longtime host of MSNBC's "Hardball," was accused of sexually harassing a coworker in the late 1990s and the staffer was paid a severance package by the network when she left her job, a spokesman for the news network confirmed on Sunday. The woman told CNBC executives in 1999 that Matthews made inappropriate remarks about her in front of others, the spokesman said. CNBC is a sister company of MSNBC.

The company declined to elaborate in the comments other than to say they were sophomoric, inappropriate, made in poor taste and weren't intended to be propositions.

"In 1999, this matter was thoroughly reviewed and dealt with," the spokesman wrote to The Associated Press. "At that time, Matthews received a formal reprimand."

The person representing MSNBC spoke to The Associated Press on condition that his name will not be used due to the sensitive nature of the matter.

The payment was "separation-related compensation," meaning it was contingent on the woman leaving her job, MSNBC said. The company would not say how much she received, citing confidentiality. The company also declined to elaborate on how Matthews was reprimanded.

Attempts to reach Matthews on Sunday were unsuccessful.

Matthews hosts the hourly show every evening from MSNBC's studios in Washington, D.C. The show features interviews and debates with prominent politicians, newsmakers, and leaders, according to its website.

Matthews is a former Washington bureau chief, presidential speechwriter, congressional staffer and best-selling author.

The Daily Caller first reported the allegations on Saturday.

By The Associated Pres

Photo credit: Chris Pizzello/Associated Press