Lester Holt, one of the most respected figures in broadcast journalism, has announced that he will step down as anchor of NBC Nightly News at the start of summer 2025. After leading the network’s flagship evening newscast for over a decade, Holt will transition to a full-time role at ‘Dateline NBC’, where he has been a familiar presence for nearly 15 years.
Lester Holt’s Announcement
In a memo to NBC News staff, Holt expressed gratitude for his years at ‘Nightly News’ while looking forward to his new chapter at ‘Dateline NBC’.
“I have been privileged to bring the news to millions of viewers every evening. It has been an honor to serve as a trusted voice during some of the most challenging and historic moments in our nation’s history.”
NBC News has not yet announced his replacement, but the transition comes as the network navigates a changing media landscape with increasing competition from digital platforms.
Lester Holt’s Legacy at NBC Nightly News
Holt became the first Black male solo anchor of a major network newscast when he took over “NBC Nightly News” in 2015, following Brian Williams’ departure. Over the past decade, he has covered some of the most significant global events, including:
- The Russia-Ukraine War
- The 2023 Hamas attack on Israel
- U.S. presidential elections and political crises
- The COVID-19 pandemic
- International humanitarian crises
Throughout his tenure, Holt was known for his calm, authoritative presence, earning widespread trust among viewers.
A New Focus on ‘Dateline NBC’
As Holt shifts into a full-time role at ‘Dateline NBC,’ he will focus on long-form investigative journalism, covering in-depth crime stories, exclusive interviews, and special reports. His expanded presence on ‘Dateline’ signals a stronger push by NBC News into documentary-style reporting, which has gained popularity in the streaming era.
What’s Next for NBC Nightly News?
NBC News has not yet named Holt’s successor, but speculation is growing about potential replacements.
The network may look to promote an internal journalist, with candidates including Tom Llamas, Kristen Welker, and Peter Alexander.
Holt will officially transition in summer 2025, giving NBC time to prepare for a smooth handover.
Final Thoughts
Lester Holt’s departure from ‘Nightly News’ marks the end of an era, but his continued work at ‘Dateline NBC’ ensures that his influence on journalism is far from over. As NBC prepares for the future, viewers can look forward to seeing Holt in a new role, delivering powerful investigative stories that have long defined his career.