In a rare and emotionally charged moment at NBC, anchor Lester Holt made an unexpected announcement just before stepping down from his anchor chair on NBC Nightly News. The revered journalist, who had spent decades cementing his legacy in the world of broadcast journalism, pulled aside his colleague Tom Llamas moments before his final broadcast and shared a private and profound message that would leave a lasting mark on Llamas, the newsroom, and viewers across the globe.

New “NBC Nightly News” anchor Tom Llamas at NBC4 Los Angeles in Universal City. He starts the new role on Monday.
(Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

Though the details of Holt’s message remain private, sources within NBC confirm that his words were deeply personal—more than a mere farewell, they were a life-altering admission. Llamas, who had joined NBC in 2000 as an intern and worked his way up to becoming the network’s first Latino anchor for the evening newscast, was visibly moved by the conversation. A statement from Llamas revealed that the exchange had caused him to reconsider his own approach to journalism and leadership.

“I didn’t expect that moment,” Llamas later said, his voice filled with emotion. “It wasn’t just a passing of the torch—it was a passing of wisdom, and it’s something I’ll carry with me for the rest of my career.”

Tom Llamas’ Rise to NBC Nightly News Anchor

For Llamas, this conversation with Holt marks a pivotal moment in his remarkable career. The son of Cuban immigrants, Llamas grew up in Miami, where he developed a deep respect for journalism and its role in shaping narratives. Llamas had spent years covering breaking news events from around the world, eventually becoming an anchor for NBC’s streaming service, NBC News Now, before transitioning to the prestigious NBC Nightly News anchor role.

Llamas had always admired Holt, who became an iconic figure in American journalism. Holt’s career spanned decades, and his contributions to network news were unparalleled, especially for his steady and reliable presence during high-stakes global events. His calm delivery during moments of crisis helped to shape the public’s trust in NBC as a source of truthful, objective reporting.

Now, as Llamas prepares to take on the responsibility of following in Holt’s footsteps, the weight of his mentor’s words is palpable. “The pressure is there, but I think the advice Lester gave me—that it’s about more than just news, it’s about the stories we’re telling and how they impact people—resonated deeply,” Llamas reflected.

A Legacy of Leadership and Mentorship

Holt, who had long been known for his professionalism and thoughtfulness, shared more than just career advice during their conversation. The sentiment was clear: leadership in journalism is about resilience, integrity, and remaining grounded despite the constant pressure that comes with being in the spotlight.

Tom Llamas reporting from Kyiv in March 2022.
(NBC News)

Holt’s departure from NBC Nightly News marks the end of an era for the network. Having anchored the broadcast for over a decade, Holt is widely regarded as one of the most trusted figures in news. However, his exit isn’t just about the end of a career—it’s about the future of network journalism. Holt, whose reputation is built on an unwavering commitment to the truth, emphasized to Llamas the importance of maintaining this standard, no matter the challenges ahead.

“It’s not just about delivering the news,” Holt told Llamas. “It’s about delivering it with respect and responsibility. You have to remember who you’re doing this for—the audience. They trust you with their time, and that’s sacred.”

For Llamas, this advice comes at a critical moment in his career as he takes over a role that demands both precision and empathy. The transition from reporter to anchor is never easy, but Llamas has shown the ability to rise to any challenge thrown his way.

NBC’s Tom Llamas in Rome, covering the death of Pope Francis in April 2025.
(NBC News)

The End of an Era: Lester Holt’s Legacy

Lester Holt’s departure from NBC Nightly News leaves a legacy of professionalism, humility, and commitment to truth in journalism. For many in the newsroom, he was more than just an anchor—he was a mentor, a guide, and an unwavering presence during some of the most defining moments in modern history.

Holt’s decision to step down comes at a time when the media landscape is rapidly evolving. As Llamas prepares to take on the mantle, his leadership will be put to the test in a world where news cycles move faster than ever, and public trust in media is continually challenged.

Still, Llamas’ background and journey have prepared him for this moment. From his early days as a production assistant to his current role as anchor of NBC Nightly News, Llamas has built a reputation as a tenacious journalist with a passion for storytelling. His move into the anchor seat marks a pivotal moment in his career, one that has the potential to shape the future of network journalism for years to come.

A Changing of the Guard: What’s Next for NBC Nightly News?

Llamas’ transition to anchor of NBC Nightly News signals a shift in how major news organizations are positioning themselves for the future. As younger, more diverse voices take center stage in American journalism, Llamas’ appointment represents a nod to the importance of reaching broader, younger audiences while maintaining the trusted legacy of a network news program.

As for Lester Holt, his legacy as a calm and reassuring presence in the newsroom is cemented. His ability to navigate the most complex stories while maintaining his integrity has set the standard for future journalists to follow. While he may no longer be sitting at the anchor desk, his influence will continue to shape NBC News for years to come.

A Mentor’s Final Lesson

For Tom Llamas, Holt’s final words served as a powerful reminder of the role that empathy, responsibility, and truth play in the craft of journalism. “It wasn’t just about taking over the chair,” Llamas said. “It was about understanding the responsibility that comes with this position. And Lester made sure I knew that.”

As Llamas prepares to carry the torch, it’s clear that he is ready to take on the responsibility of leading NBC Nightly News into the future. With the lessons of his mentor, the legacy of Lester Holt, guiding him, Llamas is poised to become one of the most respected voices in American journalism. The next chapter for NBC News has just begun, and it promises to be an exciting one.