Lester Holt, a distinguished figure in American journalism, has announced his decision to step down as the anchor of ‘NBC Nightly News’ after a decade-long tenure. At 65, Holt reflects on a career that has spanned over four decades, marked by unwavering dedication to delivering news with integrity and professionalism.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born on March 8, 1959, in Marin County, California, Lester Don Holt Jr. was raised in Sacramento. His foray into broadcasting began during his college years at California State University, Sacramento, where he worked as a disc jockey at a local radio station. Recognizing his passion for journalism, Holt transitioned to news reporting, joining CBS in 1981. Over the next 19 years, he honed his skills as a reporter and anchor, covering significant events across Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago.
Transition to NBC and Rise to Prominence
In 2000, Holt embarked on a new chapter with NBC News. He initially served as a substitute anchor for programs like ‘NBC Nightly News’ and ‘Today.’ His versatility and commitment led to his role as a full-time co-anchor of ‘Weekend Today’ and later as the weekend anchor for ‘NBC Nightly News.’ In 2015, following Brian Williams’ departure, Holt made history by becoming the first African American solo anchor of a major network’s weekday nightly newscast. His tenure has been marked by comprehensive coverage of pivotal events, including the 2023 attack on Israel and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Holt’s interviews with prominent figures such as President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have further solidified his reputation as a trusted journalist.
Financial Standing and Net Worth
Throughout his illustrious career, Holt has not only earned respect but also substantial financial rewards. As of 2025, his annual salary at NBC is reported to be $10 million, contributing to an estimated net worth of $35 million. This financial standing reflects his significant contributions to broadcast journalism and his status as a leading figure in the industry.
Personal Life
Beyond the newsroom, Holt leads a fulfilling personal life. He has been married to Carol Hagen since 1982, and together they have two sons, Stefan and Cameron. Stefan has followed in his father’s footsteps, building a career in journalism, while Cameron has pursued a path in finance. Holt’s commitment to family is evident, and he often speaks about the support and inspiration they provide.
A New Chapter with ‘Dateline NBC’
While Holt is stepping down from ‘NBC Nightly News,’ he is not bidding farewell to journalism. He will be dedicating his efforts full-time to ‘Dateline NBC,’ a program he has been associated with since 2011. In a memo to NBC staff, Holt expressed his enthusiasm for this transition:
“I’m excited to report I will be continuing as anchor of ‘Dateline NBC,’ but for the first time in a full-time capacity whereby I will be expanding my footprint on the broadcast and crafting ‘Dateline’ hours on subjects I care deeply about.”
This move allows Holt to delve deeper into investigative journalism, focusing on in-depth stories that resonate with his passion for uncovering the truth.
Reflections on a Distinguished Career
Reflecting on his journey, Holt shared:
“As a 20-year-old radio reporter on the police beat chasing breaking news around San Francisco, I could never have imagined my career path would unfold in the way it … .”
His departure from ‘NBC Nightly News’ marks the end of a significant era for the program. Under his stewardship, the broadcast has maintained its position as a trusted news source, averaging around seven million viewers weekly.
The Future of ‘NBC Nightly News’
As Holt prepares to step down in the summer of 2025, speculation about his successor has emerged. Tom Llamas, who joined NBC in 2021, is widely considered a leading candidate for the role. However, NBC News has not officially announced Holt’s replacement.
Holt’s transition reflects broader shifts within the media landscape, as networks adapt to changing viewer habits and the evolving digital environment. Despite these changes, Holt’s legacy of journalistic excellence and integrity will undoubtedly continue to influence the industry for years to come.
In conclusion, Lester Holt’s decision to step down from ‘NBC Nightly News’ signifies the culmination of a remarkable chapter in broadcast journalism. His unwavering commitment to delivering unbiased and comprehensive news has left an indelible mark on the industry. As he embarks on this new journey with ‘Dateline NBC,’ audiences can look forward to more of his insightful and impactful storytelling.
