Lester Holt Reveals Why He’s Leaving ‘Nightly News’ But Staying at NBC

Lester Holt, the prominent figure and anchor of “NBC Nightly News,” has made headlines with his recent announcement about stepping down from his position after an impressive decade. In a candid discussion with Variety, Holt expressed his deep appreciation for his 22-year journey at NBC. However, he emphasized a desire to return to his journalistic roots with a focus on “Dateline.” This shift represents a major transition in his illustrious career, sparking curiosity and interest in the media community.

A Thoughtful Decision After Years of Service

At the age of 66, Holt reflected on his meaningful tenure in journalism — a path that began back in 1981. His career took off at CBS before he made a significant transition to NBC in 2003. His profound impact on the nightly news landscape gained prominence when he took over as anchor in 2015. However, the decision to leave the anchor desk was not a hasty one; it came after considerable reflection and discussions with his wife. Holt noted that he feels poised to step down at a time when he has “gas in the tank” to still contribute to the field of journalism.

Tom Llamas to Take the Helm

Holt’s official departure is scheduled for May 30, marking a pivotal moment for NBC News. In the wake of his exit, the network has announced that Tom Llamas, a former anchor at ABC News, will assume the role of anchor for “Nightly News.” Holt touched upon the challenges faced by the program in the competitive landscape of nightly news, particularly in juxtaposition with ABC’s “World News.” Despite these challenges, he exuded optimism about the future, recognizing the ever-evolving nature of news and reporting.

Once just a young boy obsessed with radio, Lester Holt quietly fought for decades to earn his place as one of America’s top news anchors. Behind his calm demeanor lies a journey of overcoming prejudice, seizing even the smallest opportunities to shine among NBC’s veteran faces. The truth behind the studio lights is a deeply moving story that leaves a lasting impression on all who hear it.

Exciting New Ventures with Dateline

Looking ahead, Lester Holt shared his enthusiasm about transitioning to a more hands-on role with “Dateline,” where in-depth storytelling can flourish. He expressed a desire to focus on long-form journalism, emphasizing that many compelling stories often require time to unfold — a luxury that daily news cycles often do not afford. Holt’s affinity for storytelling is evident, as he aims to delve into significant topics that resonate with viewers on a deeper level.

Holt reassured his audience that while he is stepping away from his role as anchor, he is not abandoning journalism. He looks forward to continuing his legacy at NBC through “Dateline,” where he can make a lasting, impactful contribution to storytelling that reflects the issues of our time.

With this transition, both Holt and NBC News embrace the opportunity for growth and exploration within the journalism field, promising exciting developments for viewers and the network alike.

As we say goodbye to Holt as the anchor of “NBC Nightly News,” fans and followers of his work can continue to look forward to the stories he will share in his new role, ensuring that impactful journalism remains a priority at NBC.