Lester Holt is bidding farewell to NBC Nightly News after a remarkable tenure of ten years, with his final broadcast airing on May 30. Holt’s departure marks a significant transition in broadcast journalism, as he has made a tremendous impact during his time on the network. He is recognized for being the first Black solo anchor of a nightly network newscast, a milestone he achieved in 2015.
As Holt steps down, he is shifting his focus to Dateline NBC, a program where he has been a lead anchor since 2011. His estimated net worth is over $35 million, a reflection of his extensive career in journalism that includes his significant roles at NBC since joining in 2000.
Tom Llamas, currently the anchor of Top Story and a well-regarded figure at NBC, will take over the role of anchor for NBC Nightly News starting June 2. Llamas has prepared for this promotion by building a presence through various NBC programs, including Today, and has connected with affiliates across the nation.
Holt’s influence on journalism has been profound. He emphasized the noble responsibility of journalism, highlighting the importance of compassion over arrogance in the field. With Holt’s conclusion at NBC Nightly News, David Muir at ABC World News Tonight will become the longest-tenured anchor among the top three evening news networks, following the recent changes at CBS.
Looking ahead, Holt expressed enthusiasm for his new role at Dateline, where he said he aims to explore diverse storytelling methods, enabling him to engage more deeply with various projects. His dedication to journalism, combined with this new chapter, suggests that he will continue to make significant contributions to the industry.