Surely it takes character to get through it? It takes character to admit to human failings and weaknesses, especially when it’s extremely publicly. It’s not a mark of character to collapse and disappear out of contrition under such circumstances. Poor character would say “it never happened and I don’t even care anyway if it did or what you think”.

Isn’t that what’s been happening? These rumors have been circulating for quite a while. His hand is definitely forced here, by the board.

Character is admitting you stole from the cookie jar before mom and dad discover the cookie crumbs all over your hands, not after.

We don’t actually know that wasn’t the case here. And nobody goes around shouting “I’m having an affair everybody!” - affairs by their nature are somewhat discreet.