Lester Holt, the esteemed anchor of NBC’s flagship program “NBC Nightly News,” has announced his decision to step down from his role after a decade at the helm. This move marks a significant shift in his career, as he transitions to a full-time position with NBC’s news magazine show “Dateline.” Holt’s departure from “Nightly News” is set to occur at the beginning of summer, although NBC has not yet named a successor for the position.
Lester Holt Stepping Down
Holt’s decision to leave “Nightly News” comes after a distinguished tenure that began in June 2015. He took over the role following a scandal involving former anchor Brian Williams, who was found to have exaggerated stories about his experiences. Holt brought stability and credibility to the program, guiding it through some of the most tumultuous periods in recent history, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and significant political events such as the presidency of Donald Trump.
Lester Holt Age
As of 2025, Lester Holt is 65 years old, born on March 8, 1959, in Marin County, California. Despite his age, Holt remains a prominent figure in journalism and will continue to contribute to NBC through his expanded role at “Dateline.”
How Old is Lester Holt?
Holt’s career spans over four decades, beginning as a young radio reporter in San Francisco. His journey to becoming one of the most respected news anchors in the U.S. is a testament to his dedication and perseverance. At 65, he is not retiring but instead focusing on a new chapter with “Dateline,” where he has been a lead anchor for nearly 15 years.
Career Highlights
Lester Holt’s career is marked by numerous achievements. He was the first Black person to solo anchor a weekday network nightly newscast, a milestone that underscores his impact on diversity in media. Holt has moderated presidential debates, covered major sporting events like the Olympics, and made cameo appearances in films and TV series. His commitment to journalism has earned him the Walter Cronkite Award for Excellence in Journalism in 2019.
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Future with Dateline
Holt’s transition to a full-time role at “Dateline” allows him to focus on in-depth storytelling and investigative journalism, areas where he has excelled throughout his career. He expressed excitement about crafting episodes on subjects he cares deeply about and working more closely with the talented team at “Dateline.” This move not only ensures his continued presence at NBC but also positions him to explore new themes and stories that resonate with audiences.
Impact on NBC
Lester Holt’s departure from “Nightly News” marks a significant change for NBC. He has been described as the “heart and soul” of the news organization by Janelle Rodriguez, NBC News’ executive vice president of programming. His leadership during challenging times has been instrumental in maintaining the program’s credibility and viewership. As NBC navigates this transition, it will be crucial to find a successor who can uphold the standards set by Holt.
Conclusion
Lester Holt’s decision to leave “NBC Nightly News” is a strategic move that allows him to focus on “Dateline” while remaining a vital part of NBC. His legacy as a journalist and his contributions to “Nightly News” will continue to inspire future generations of journalists. As the media landscape evolves, Holt’s commitment to quality journalism serves as a beacon for the industry.