Lester Holt, a familiar face in American news broadcasting, is set to step down as the anchor of NBC’s flagship “Nightly News” after a remarkable decade in the role. This transition is anticipated to occur in early summer, although no specific successor has been designated as of yet.
Despite his departure from “Nightly News,” Holt will not be leaving NBC entirely. He has announced plans to transition into a full-time role on the popular program “Dateline,” where he has also served as a principal anchor since 2011. In a heartfelt memo to his colleagues, Holt expressed deep gratitude for his time at NBC, stating, “It has truly been the honor of a lifetime to work with each of you.” His dedication to journalism and the audience was evident as he reflected on his tenure, which included anchoring two of the most iconic news programs in television history.
Holt, who joined NBC in 2000 and took over “Nightly News” in June 2015 following Brian Williams, has shaped a legacy that will be remembered fondly. Janelle Rodriguez, executive vice president of NBC News Programming, praised Holt’s contributions, affirming that he embodies “the beating heart of this news organization.”
The “NBC Nightly News,” with its roots tracing back to 1948, continues to be a vital source of information, reaching approximately 7 million viewers weekly. Meanwhile, “Dateline,” currently in its 33rd season and well-known for its focus on true crime, has expanded into various formats, including podcasting and scripted content.
Holt’s announcement is part of a broader trend in major news networks experiencing significant anchor changes in 2023, including Norah O’Donnell’s departure from “CBS Evening News” and recent adjustments to NBC’s day programming lineup.
This transition opens a new chapter in Holt’s career while retaining his influential presence at NBC. His commitment to high-quality journalism promises to continue capturing audiences as he takes on fresh challenges at “Dateline.”