Matt Lauer To Jay Leno About 'Today' Criticism: 'It's Been An Interesting Year' (VIDEO)

WATCH: Lauer Speaks Out

Matt Lauer stopped by "The Tonight Show" on Thursday and briefly discussed the onslaught of criticism he has faced at the "Today" show.

It's been a rough year for Lauer, who some viewers perceive as the reason why former co-host Ann Curry was replaced. The show has also been struggling somewhat in the ratings, falling behind ABC rival "Good Morning America."

"It’s been an interesting year — no question about it," Lauer said when Leno asked how he was doing. "I'm not a guy who complains. I love this job, I really do." Leno then asked about the full-page ad "Today" co-host Kathie Lee Gifford wanted to take out in support of Lauer. Gifford had multiple "Today" staffers sign an ad that she wrote but didn't actually place.

"Kathie Lee did something very sweet a couple of weeks ago," he said. "She went around and she just passed around a note and had members of the staff sign it just saying, 'Things are going to be okay.'"

Lauer added, "Kathie Lee is one of the dearest people, and she's kind and she's compassionate and she's been there. My mother has always told me that, 'In times of adversity you find out who your friends are.' Kathie Lee is a great friend."

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