NEW YORK — He’s been the anchor and managing editor of “NBC Nightly News” for over ten years. Starting this summer, Lester Holt will step down from his role as lead anchor for the network's flagship late afternoon news broadcast. Holt shared his decision on Monday, stating he will remain with NBC as the principal anchor for the highly-regarded newsmagazine “Dateline,” where he has served for nearly 15 years.
Since taking the helm of “NBC Nightly News” in June 2015 following the controversial departure of former anchor Brian Williams, Holt has been known for his integrity and calm demeanor during challenging news cycles. His time at NBC has been marked by significant world events, including natural disasters and presidential elections.
“A smile came to my face when I think of the fact I have now anchored two of the most successful and iconic television news programs in broadcast history,” Holt wrote to staffers. “It has truly been the honor of a lifetime to work with each of you every day, keeping journalism as our true north and our viewers at the center of everything we do.” With these words, he reflected on his career, expressing gratitude for his colleagues and their shared mission.
Janelle Rodriguez, NBC News’ executive vice president of programming, praised Holt’s contributions, stating, “Quite simply, Lester is the beating heart of this news organization.” His steady leadership during some of the country’s most tumultuous moments has garnered him respect from viewers and colleagues alike. Under Holt’s guidance, “NBC Nightly News” maintained its position as one of the most trusted sources of news on television, regularly drawing millions of viewers per broadcast.
Having begun his career as a radio reporter on the police beat in San Francisco, Holt professionally evolved over decades, first joining NBCUniversal as part of MSNBC and gradually building his reputation through various roles across the network. He rose to prominence as the first Black male solo anchor of a major evening newscast.
After having served as the anchor for the weekend editions of “NBC Nightly News” and co-anchoring “Weekend TODAY,” Holt took over as the main anchor. His arrival at the helm coincided with significant changes, including competing with programs from rival networks ABC and CBS, each vying for the attention of dwindling television audiences.
Despite the challenges posed by significant declines in linear television viewership across networks, Holt’s presence during high-stakes moments from around the globe, including the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, was remarkably comforting for many viewers, reinforcing the importance of trustworthy journalism.
“He has led the network during some of the country’s most fraught and challenging times,” Rodriguez stated. Holt’s announcement arrives at the same time major shifts are happening across broadcast news, with concurrent changes affecting other anchors, including Norah O'Donnell at CBS and Hoda Kotb at NBC.
Looking forward, Holt expressed his enthusiasm for his continuing role as the anchor of “Dateline NBC,” during which he plans to expand his contributions and collaborate closely with his colleagues. “I’m excited to report I will be continuing as anchor of Dateline, but for the first time I will be working on subjects I care deeply about,” he clarified. “I am thrilled to be able to work more closely with my enormously talented friends at Dateline as the broadcast continues to grow and attract new viewers.” Holt’s plans indicate a strong commitment to the investigative journalism style for which the program is known.
With no successor named at this stage, speculation abounds as to who will take the reins as anchor of NBC Nightly News. Holt has established significant viewership, averaging around 6 million per week, even with the backdrop of increasing competition from streaming news platforms.
Holt’s departure marks the end of another chapter in NBC's storied news legacy. The void left by his exit is palpable, but those at NBC maintain deep respect for his leadership and contributions to journalism. Changes are reshaping the news industry, yet Holt leaves behind not just ratings or awards, but also the indelible impact of his voice and integrity on audiences.
Despite stepping away from the main anchor desk of NBC Nightly News, Lester Holt’s career is far from over. He continues to influence viewers each week on Dateline and embarks on newer and more exciting journalistic journeys.