Lester Holt’s Net Worth & Salary: Why He’s Leaving NBC Nightly News?

Lester Holt, the trusted face of NBC Nightly News, is stepping away from his anchor and managing editor role in the summer of 2025. At 65 years old, Holt has spent over four decades in journalism, becoming one of the most respected and admired news anchors in the industry. With a net worth of $35 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth, his career has been nothing short of legendary. But while he’s leaving Nightly News, he isn’t saying goodbye to NBC. Instead, he’ll be shifting his focus to Dateline, where he’ll continue to deliver compelling investigative journalism.

Who Is Lester Holt? A Storied Career in Journalism

Lester Holt’s journey to becoming America’s most trusted news anchor wasn’t a straight shot. Born on March 8, 1959, Holt began his career in radio, working as a DJ before moving into journalism. His early career saw him take on reporting gigs in the 1980s, leading him to CBS, where he worked for nearly 20 years. His big break came when he joined MSNBC in 2000, followed by a move to NBC in 2003. From there, he quickly climbed the ranks, eventually taking over as the anchor of NBC Nightly News in 2015.

Throughout his career, Holt has been praised for his calm demeanor, journalistic integrity, and ability to navigate some of the most critical news stories of our time. His dedication to accurate and unbiased reporting earned him the title of America’s most trusted television news anchor. Alongside his journalism career, he’s also had cameos in films like The Fugitive and Primal Fear, showcasing his range beyond the newsroom.

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Why Is Lester Holt Leaving NBC Nightly News?

After a decade as the face of Nightly News, Holt announced in February 2025 that he would be stepping down from his role. In a heartfelt memo to NBC staff, he reflected on his journey:

“After 10 years, 17 if you include my years on the weekends, the time has come for me to step away from my role as anchor of Nightly News. It has truly been the honor of a lifetime to work with each of you every day, keeping journalism as our true north and our viewers at the center of everything we do.”

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While he didn’t specify a reason for leaving, it’s clear that Holt is making a move to focus on a new chapter of his career rather than retiring entirely.

What’s Next for Lester Holt?

Although he’s leaving Nightly News, Holt isn’t parting ways with NBC. Instead, he’s transitioning into a full-time role at Dateline, the long-running investigative news magazine. In his letter to colleagues, he shared his excitement about the move:

“I’m thrilled to be able to work more closely with my enormously talented friends at Dateline as the broadcast continues to grow and attract new viewers in new places.”

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Holt’s passion for storytelling and investigative reporting makes this a natural transition. With Dateline expanding its reach and audience, Holt’s presence will only strengthen the program’s impact.

Lester Holt’s Salary and Financial Success

With a salary of $10 million per year, Lester Holt has secured a spot as one of the highest-paid journalists in the industry. His impressive earnings stem from his longstanding career in network news, with NBC valuing his ability to connect with audiences and deliver trustworthy reporting. His net worth, estimated at $35 million, reflects his years of dedication and success in the field.

Beyond his earnings, Holt’s influence in journalism has been immense. He has interviewed world leaders, moderated presidential debates, and covered major breaking news stories with poise and professionalism. His departure from Nightly News marks the end of an era, but his financial and professional legacy is firmly intact.

Family and Personal Life

Lester Holt’s career has been a significant part of his life, but his family has always remained close to his heart. He has been married to his wife, Carol Hagen, since 1982. The couple shares two sons, Stefan and Cameron Holt. Stefan followed in his father’s footsteps, working as a journalist and news anchor.

Despite his demanding career, Holt has always prioritized family. He often shares glimpses of his personal life, emphasizing the importance of balance between work and home. As he transitions to Dateline, it’s likely that he’ll have more time to enjoy life outside the fast-paced world of nightly news.

Who Will Replace Lester Holt?

As of now, NBC News has not officially named a successor to Holt. However, reports suggest that there are a few strong contenders. The Hollywood Reporter has speculated that potential replacements include:

• Tom Llamas – Currently the anchor of Top Story, he has gained a reputation for his sharp reporting and compelling delivery.
• Hallie Jackson – A well-respected political journalist and current weekend anchor for Nightly News, Jackson’s deep understanding of political affairs makes her a strong candidate.
• Jose Diaz-Balart – Another weekend anchor for Nightly News, Diaz-Balart brings years of experience and a strong connection with diverse audiences.

NBC will likely make an official announcement closer to Holt’s departure in the summer of 2025. Whoever takes on the role will have big shoes to fill, as Holt’s tenure at Nightly News set a high standard for journalistic excellence.

The End of an Era, But Not the End of Holt’s Legacy

Lester Holt stepping down from NBC Nightly News is a significant moment in broadcast journalism. For years, viewers have relied on his steady presence to deliver the news with integrity and clarity. But while this marks the end of his Nightly News tenure, it’s far from the end of his career.

With his move to Dateline, Holt continues to do what he loves—telling important stories, uncovering the truth, and engaging with audiences in meaningful ways. His legacy in journalism is secure, and his influence will continue to shape the industry for years to come.

So, while we may no longer see him on our screens every evening at NBC Nightly News, Lester Holt remains a vital part of the journalism world. His next chapter promises to be just as impactful as the ones before it, proving that true journalists never stop chasing the story.