Lester Holt Will Exit ‘NBC Nightly News’ But Not Journalism

Lester Holt, a familiar face on “NBC Nightly News” for the past decade, is preparing to step away from the anchor desk on May 30th. However, this is not the end of his journalism career. Holt will be transitioning to a new role as a regular contributor to “Dateline,” NBC’s popular newsmagazine show known for its focus on true-crime stories.

In recent years, “Dateline” has not only captured a dedicated audience but has also become a significant revenue generator for the news division. Holt, at 66 years old, is excited about this new opportunity to tell more stories and take on a more active role in the production of the show. He is looking forward to flexing some different news muscles and working on hour-long and two-hour episodes that delve deep into various topics.

The decision for Holt to step back from his role on “Nightly” was not made lightly. After long discussions with his wife and close confidants, Holt realized that while he was ready to leave the daily grind of anchoring a nightly news program, he still had a lot to offer in terms of journalism. This move to “Dateline” allows him to continue his passion for storytelling in a different format.

Unlike many evening-news anchors who take a step back after leaving their respective broadcasts, Holt is diving headfirst into a new challenge. His tenure at “Nightly” has been marked by stability during a time of upheaval in the news industry. He brought a fresh perspective to the show, including delivering end-of-broadcast essays during national crises and launching a special edition of “Nightly News” for children during the pandemic.

Holt’s interview with former President Donald Trump in 2017, where Trump made significant revelations about the firing of FBI Director James Comey, was a standout moment in his career. Despite the gravity of the situation, Holt remains humble about the impact of that interview and the role he played in holding the powerful accountable.

Looking ahead, Holt believes that the traditional evening news format will endure, even as networks explore new ways to reach audiences through digital platforms. He emphasizes the importance of providing a fact-based summary of the day’s events without sensationalism or bias, a principle that he hopes will continue to resonate with viewers.

As Holt embarks on this new chapter in his career, he remains optimistic about the future of journalism and the enduring value of delivering news in a straightforward and informative manner. While his role may be changing, Holt’s commitment to storytelling and upholding journalistic standards remains unwavering. As he transitions to “Dateline,” viewers can expect to see a fresh perspective and a continued dedication to bringing important stories to light.