Lester Holt: A Distinguished Career in Broadcast Journalism

Lester Don Holt Jr., born on March 8, 1959, in Marin County, California, has been a prominent figure in American broadcast journalism for over four decades. Known for his authoritative presence and unwavering commitment to factual reporting, Holt has become a trusted voice in households across the nation. As of February 2025, he announced his decision to step down from his role as the anchor of "NBC Nightly News," transitioning to a full-time position at "Dateline NBC." This move marks the end of a significant chapter in his illustrious career and the beginning of a new focus on in-depth investigative journalism.

Early Life and Education

Lester Holt was born to June (DeRozario) and Lester Don Holt Sr. His heritage is a rich tapestry, with maternal grandparents hailing from Jamaica. His maternal grandfather, Canute DeRozario, was of Anglo-Indian descent from Spanish Town, Jamaica, while his maternal grandmother, May, was an Afro-Jamaican from Manchester Parish, Jamaica. This diverse background contributed to Holt's unique perspective on cultural and societal issues.

Growing up, Holt developed an interest in broadcasting, influenced by his older brother, who worked as a disc jockey in Anchorage, Alaska. He graduated from Cordova High School in Rancho Cordova, California, in 1977. Holt then attended California State University, Sacramento, majoring in government. However, his passion for journalism led him to leave college before completing his degree to pursue a career in radio broadcasting.

Early Career in Radio and Television

Holt's broadcasting career began in 1981 when he was hired as a reporter for WCBS-TV in New York City. His dedication and talent quickly became evident, leading him to various roles within the CBS network. In 1982, he joined KNXT (now KCBS-TV) in Los Angeles as a reporter and weekend anchor. A year later, he returned to WCBS-TV, resuming his duties as a reporter and weekend anchor.

In 1986, Holt moved to WBBM-TV, the CBS affiliate in Chicago, where he anchored the evening news for 14 years. During this period, he reported from numerous international hotspots, including Iraq, Northern Ireland, Somalia, El Salvador, and Haiti. His fearless reporting and commitment to delivering accurate news solidified his reputation as a reliable journalist.

Transition to NBC and National Recognition

In 2000, Holt joined MSNBC, the cable news channel owned by NBC, serving as a primary anchor for breaking news and daytime coverage. His exceptional skills led to his appointment as a substitute anchor for "NBC Nightly News" and the "Today" show. Following the untimely death of David Bloom in 2003, Holt became the full-time co-anchor of "Weekend Today." In 2007, he was named the anchor for the weekend edition of "NBC Nightly News," a position he held until 2015.

Holt's versatility extended beyond traditional news programs. He hosted a special on the History Channel examining 9/11 conspiracy theories and served as a sports desk reporter for NBC Sports during the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing. Additionally, he narrated a documentary on the Sci-Fi Channel about crystal skulls, showcasing his ability to engage audiences across various platforms.

Ascension to Weekday Anchor of "NBC Nightly News"

In 2015, following the suspension of Brian Williams, Holt was appointed as the permanent anchor of "NBC Nightly News," making him the first African American solo anchor of a weekday network nightly newscast. His tenure was marked by comprehensive coverage of major global events, including the aftermath of the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and the European migrant crisis in 2015. Holt conducted interviews with prominent figures such as Presidents Joe Biden and Donald Trump, as well as Vice President Kamala Harris.

Under his leadership, "NBC Nightly News" maintained its position as a leading evening news program, averaging around seven million viewers weekly. Holt's commitment to journalistic integrity and his calm demeanor during turbulent times earned him widespread respect and trust from viewers and colleagues alike.

Moderating Presidential Debates and Notable Interviews

Holt's role extended beyond the newsroom to the political arena. In January 2016, he moderated the Democratic presidential candidates' debate, demonstrating his ability to navigate complex political discussions with fairness and insight. Later that year, he moderated the first presidential debate between Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump on September 26, 2016. His performance was praised for fact-checking candidates' statements and maintaining control over the proceedings.

In May 2017, Holt conducted a significant interview with President Donald Trump, during which they discussed the firing of FBI Director James Comey. The interview garnered extensive media coverage and highlighted Holt's adeptness at handling high-pressure situations with professionalism.

Awards and Recognitions

Throughout his career, Holt has received numerous accolades for his contributions to journalism. In 1990, he was honored with the Robert F. Kennedy Journalism Award for his work on CBS's "48 Hours: No Place Like Home." He has also been recognized with multiple Emmy Awards for his outstanding reporting.

In 2016, the National Association of Black Journalists named him "Journalist of the Year," acknowledging his significant impact on the field. That same year, he was featured on TIME's "100 Most Influential People" list and The Hollywood Reporter's "Most Powerful People in New York" list. In 2019, Holt received the prestigious Walter Cronkite Award for Excellence in Journalism, underscoring his dedication to truthful and ethical reporting.

Personal Life

Lester Holt is married to Carol Hagen, a real estate agent. The couple resides in