Holt Bolts Nightly News, Here's His Next Gig...

 
Lester Holt revealed to his staff on Monday that he will be stepping down as the anchor of “NBC Nightly News.” Having helmed the weeknight broadcast since June 2015, the seasoned NBC journalist plans to stay in his current position until summer begins. After that, he will shift his focus entirely to anchoring “Dateline NBC,” a role he has held since 2011, according to a message he shared with his team.

“NBC Nightly News” consistently ranks as the second most-watched evening newscast, trailing ABC’s “World News Tonight” but surpassing “CBS Evening News.” NBC reports that Holt’s program draws an average of roughly seven million viewers weekly.

During his tenure at “NBC Nightly News,” Holt has covered significant global events, such as the aftermath of the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, Russia’s assault on Ukraine, and the 2015 European migrant crisis, which he reported on from Hungary. His interviews have included high-profile figures like Joe Biden, Donald Trump, Kamala Harris, and former Attorney General William Barr. Additionally, he has reported from every Olympic Games since 2002.

Prior to leading the weeknight edition, Holt anchored the weekend versions of “NBC Nightly News.” He first joined NBC News in 2000. Reflecting on his time with the team, he expressed gratitude, saying, “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.”

Holt’s departure comes as media companies navigate a challenging shift toward digital platforms. Several prominent TV anchors have faced salary reductions as networks aim to cut costs, while outlets like CNN and MSNBC are experimenting with new lineups to boost viewership.