New NBC Nightly News Anchor Tom Llamas Outlines HIs Plans

Tom Llamas, succeeding Lester Holt as the anchor and managing editor of NBC Nightly News starting Monday, has outlined a vision for the broadcast that emphasizes continuity, journalistic integrity, and a focus on delivering the best possible news program.Llamas has expressed a competitive yet independent approach, stating, “We’re going to run our own race, and I think that’s how you get to number one.” He aims to focus on making NBC Nightly News the best show possible rather than fixating on outperforming competitors like ABC’s David Muir. This involves prioritizing content quality and viewer trust over direct rivalry.

Maintaining Legacy and Trust: Llamas is leaning into the storied legacy of NBC Nightly News, emphasizing its history with past anchors like John Chancellor, Tom Brokaw, Brian Williams, and Lester Holt. Promotional campaigns highlight this continuity, with a voice-over stating, “As the world changes, we look for what endures,” positioning Llamas as a trusted successor. His goal is to uphold the program’s reputation for journalistic excellence and integrity.

Dual Role with Streaming: Llamas will continue anchoring Top Story with Tom Llamas on NBC News NOW, making him the first Nightly News anchor to simultaneously host a daily streaming newscast. This dual role reflects his commitment to reaching both traditional broadcast and younger streaming audiences, leveraging his experience in growing NBC News NOW into a leading streaming news network.

Focus on Viewer Connection: Llamas plans to work with the “world-class journalists” at Nightly News and Top Story to deliver “the most important stories every night.” His approach emphasizes passionate storytelling, a hallmark of his career, to connect with viewers on critical issues, from breaking news to in-depth global coverage.

Building on Recent Success: Llamas has already demonstrated his capability, notably achieving a ratings victory over ABC’s World News Tonight in the key A25-54 demographic on April 17, 2025, while filling in for Holt. This suggests confidence in his ability to draw viewers as he takes on the permanent role.

Llamas, a 45-year-old Emmy-winning journalist and Loyola University New Orleans graduate, brings over 25 years of broadcast experience, including stints at ABC News and earlier roles at NBC. As the first Latino anchor of the weeknight edition of NBC Nightly News, he also represents a historic milestone, aiming to broaden the program’s reach and representation