Tom ‌Llamas Makes History as NBC Nightly ‌News ‌Anchor

Veteran journalist Tom Llamas is set to make history as the new anchor of “NBC Nightly News,” becoming the first Latino⁢ journalist to helm a daily English-language network evening newscast. Llamas, who‍ began his career at NBC as​ an‍ intern, will succeed Lester ⁣Holt, who is transitioning full-time to “Dateline.”

Llamas will also maintain his role as anchor ‍of ​”Top ‍Story,”​ a live⁤ newscast‌ on NBC⁢ News Now, the network’s streaming ⁤platform. The son of Cuban immigrants, Llamas has strong ties ‌to Miami, where his promotion was celebrated by figures like Gloria Estefan and Don Francisco. He‍ currently resides ⁢in Westchester County, N.Y., with his family and a curated vinyl record‍ collection.

NBC's Tom Llamas​ in Rome, ‍covering the death‌ of Pope Francis in April 2025.
NBC’s Tom ‌Llamas in Rome, covering the death of Pope⁣ Francis in April ‍2025. (NBC News)

Llamas discussed his new responsibilities and the ⁢advice he received⁢ from Holt. “He told me, ‘Yoru life is going to change,'” Llamas said, ⁤noting‌ the increased demands on his time.He emphasized​ the importance of‍ balancing career ‍and family, a challenge his ​wife and