Lester Holt announces exit from 'NBC Nightly News' after a decade, viewers say 'he will be missed'

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: Lester Holt is stepping down as anchor of 'NBC Nightly News' after a decade at the helm.

The 65-year-old, who joined NBC News in 2000, took over as anchor of 'NBC Nightly News' in 2015. A successor for Holt’s role has yet to be named. 

Following the announcement, NBC News Executive Vice President of Programming Janelle Rodriguez commended the veteran news anchor for his steady and impactful leadership over the years.

Lester Holt reflects on beginning his career as a radio reporter as he announces his exit from 'NBC Nightly News'

In a letter to staff obtained by Fox News Digital, Lester Holt reflected on his career. He wrote, "A smile comes to my face when I think that with Nightly News, and Dateline, I have now anchored two of the most successful and iconic television news programs in broadcast history."

Holt reminisced, "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 has. What an amazing ride."

Although Holt is stepping down from 'NBC Nightly News', he will remain with the network, transitioning to a full-time role with 'Dateline' starting this summer.

He has served as an anchor of 'Dateline' since 2011. Before becoming the anchor of 'NBC Nightly News', Holt spent eight years anchoring the weekend edition.

eHolt famously closed each newscast with the words, "Please take care of yourself and each other."

NBC News Executive VP Janelle Rodriguez praises Lester Holt's steady and thoughtful leadership

NBC News Executive Vice President Janelle Rodriguez informed colleagues of the change on Monday, February 24, saying, "A short time ago, Lester shared with his team that after 10 years as the NBC Nightly News anchor, he’s taking on a dedicated full-time role at Dateline, his second home."

She added, "Lester will continue at the helm of Nightly until early summer before he devotes his energy to the rapidly expanding powerhouse that is Dateline."

Rodriguez also praised Holt’s leadership, stating, "Because of Lester’s steady and thoughtful leadership, Nightly News has sustained its perch as a trusted and top news destination for millions of viewers across America."

"He has led the network during some of the country’s most fraught and challenging times in the past decade, most notably during the early days of the pandemic when Lester’s voice was a source of comfort each night for so many," she added. 

Rodriguez concluded, "He’s taken viewers to the frontlines of every major story and sat down with world leaders, skillfully eliciting answers on consequential issues. Quite simply, Lester is the beating heart of this news organization." 

Viewers hail Lester Holt's 'integrity' as he steps down as anchor of 'NBC Nightly News'

After news broke of Lester Holt’s departure from 'NBC Nightly News', many netizens and fans swiftly took to social media to share their thoughts. 

One wrote, "Sorry to hear this! He is a classy guy and I enjoyed his news reports!" and another added, "Lester Holt has been a trusted figure in news for so many years. His departure will certainly mark the end of an era for NBC Nightly News. Wishing him all the best in his next chapter!"

"I will miss him. I believe he tried to be a balanced voice of news. As much as he was allowed. I always felt he has a sense of compassion. His parting words were always uplifting as if he truly cared about those who watched him. And compassion to those who were suffering and forgotten," expressed an admirer.

An individual echoed, "Lester Holt has long been a pillar of trust in journalism; his departure signifies the conclusion of an era for NBC Nightly News. Wishing him immense success in his future endeavors!"

One more shared, "Sorry to hear this. He’s the only evening anchor I’ll listen to. I have great respect for this gentleman," and another person noted, "Don’t listen to these people, he was a man of integrity and finesse. Such a good man. He will be missed."

"I have to say, one of the last anchors that actually garnered respect," read another comment. 

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