Stefan Holt Shares Heartfelt Tribute to Father Lester Holt After Final NBC Nightly News Broadcast

The end of an era was marked last week when Lester Holt, the iconic anchor of NBC Nightly News, signed off for the final time, closing a remarkable chapter of journalism. For more than a decade, Holt served as the trusted face of NBC’s flagship evening news program, and his farewell broadcast was nothing short of emotional. But beyond the applause and tributes, one moment particularly stood out—a deeply heartfelt video message from his son, Stefan Holt, a fellow journalist and anchor for NBC Chicago.

Stefan’s tribute resonated with viewers far beyond the world of journalism, offering a glimpse into the personal legacy that Lester Holt has built, not only as a pioneering journalist but also as a father and mentor.

A Personal Farewell: Stefan’s Emotional Message

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Following Lester’s emotional final sign-off, Stefan appeared in a video message that captured the admiration and respect he holds for his father. In his tribute, Stefan spoke directly to his dad, with emotion in his voice. “Hey Dad, greetings from Chicago,” Stefan began. “This is really hard to believe… it’s your last broadcast on Nightly News. And as you get ready to say farewell, I just want to say thank you.”

As Stefan continued, his words reflected the deep personal and professional bond they share. “Thank you from the bottom of my heart, not only for being the kind of father that every kid hopes for, but also for being the kind of mentor that every journalist dreams of,” he said, struggling to hold back tears. “For all the critiques, the career advice, for all those years letting me hang out behind the scenes at 30 Rock trying to soak it all in—I could not be more proud of your journey and all that you have done.”

The tribute wasn’t just about the admiration Stefan has for his father’s career—it also highlighted the invaluable lessons Lester imparted to him over the years, not just about journalism but about integrity, work ethic, and character. The emotional message was a testament to the incredible mentorship that has shaped Stefan’s own path in the media world.

A Legacy of Journalism: Lester Holt’s Impact

Lester Holt’s departure from NBC Nightly News comes after an impressive tenure with NBC that spanned more than 20 years. As anchor and managing editor since 2015, Holt rose to prominence as a trusted voice in American journalism, reporting on some of the most significant events of modern history—from global conflicts and natural disasters to the political upheaval of the past decade. His calm, measured approach in times of crisis earned him the respect of viewers and colleagues alike.

Lester Holt's son joining NBC in New York | Page Six

Not only did Holt become the first Black solo anchor of a weekday evening network news program, but he also redefined what it means to be a credible and empathetic news anchor in an era of increasingly polarized media. His professionalism, dedication to truth, and commitment to informing the public made him an irreplaceable figure in American broadcast journalism.

Looking Ahead: The Next Chapter with Dateline

Although many were sad to see him leave the anchor desk, Lester Holt made it clear that his journey in journalism is far from over. After his final broadcast, it was announced that Holt would transition into a new, more flexible role with Dateline NBC, the network’s long-form investigative program. This shift marks a new chapter in Holt’s career, one that allows him to return to his roots in investigative journalism.

Stefan Holt, reflecting on his father’s storied career, emphasized just how much his father’s work ethic had shaped his own life. “From anchoring here in Chicago to traveling to every hotspot around the world to spending 10 years on the desk of NBC Nightly News,” Stefan shared. “I know it didn’t come without sacrifice, but I also know deep down that it was worth it. And I’m grateful for all that you have done as a journalist and as a dad.”

Holt’s continued work with Dateline provides him with the opportunity to pursue the type of storytelling he’s passionate about—deep, thoughtful investigations into the issues that matter most. Having contributed to Dateline for over a decade, he’s well-equipped to bring his unique perspective and expertise to the program’s future stories, continuing the legacy of impactful journalism.

The Legacy Lives On: A Father’s Influence

Lester Holt’s decision to move away from the anchor desk doesn’t just mark a professional shift—it also underscores the profound impact he has had on his family, particularly his son. Stefan’s emotional tribute highlighted not only Lester’s career accomplishments but also the personal values that made him the man and mentor he is today. Stefan, who followed his father into journalism, reflected on the sacrifices his dad made to balance both career and family, something that deeply influenced Stefan’s own approach to his work.

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For Stefan, Lester’s legacy is more than just his professional achievements; it’s about the character and values he instilled in him as a father. This heartfelt tribute, broadcast for millions to see, showed how much of Lester’s humanity and grace has been passed down to his son—and it’s clear that the bond they share will continue to influence both of their careers.

A National Tribute to a Broadcast Legend

Stefan’s tribute resonated with viewers who have watched Lester Holt’s career evolve over the years. It served not only as a heartfelt goodbye from a son to his father but also as a powerful reminder of the integrity and professionalism that have defined Lester’s time in broadcast journalism. As Holt transitions to Dateline, fans of his iconic tenure at NBC Nightly News can look forward to seeing him bring the same level of passion and dedication to long-form investigative reporting.

While Holt’s departure from NBC Nightly News signals the end of a significant era, his career is far from finished. He will continue to shape the future of journalism through his work on Dateline, and his legacy as both a journalist and a father will continue to inspire for years to come.

The Future of NBC Nightly News: Tom Llamas Takes the Helm

Lester Holt’s departure has led to a changing of the guard at NBC Nightly News, with Tom Llamas set to take over as the new anchor. Llamas, an experienced journalist with a strong background in news coverage, is poised to continue Holt’s legacy of journalistic excellence. While this marks a new era for the program, the values that Holt instilled in the broadcast—trust, integrity, and the pursuit of truth—will continue to guide the program under Llamas’ leadership.

As for Lester Holt, his journey is far from over. His move to Dateline is just the beginning of a new and exciting chapter in his storied career. Whether on the anchor desk or investigating the most important stories of our time, Lester Holt’s impact on journalism is undeniable. His legacy as a father, mentor, and inspiration to future generations of journalists will continue to live on, inspiring both his family and his profession.