Tom Llamas: NBC Nightly News New Anchor
Tom Llamas has officially taken the helm as the new anchor of NBC Nightly News, making his debut with coverage of the Boulder, Colorado, attack and other top stories. His first broadcast, originating from Studio 1A, marked a significant shift, as Llamas succeeds Lester Holt after a decade. the broadcast featured subtle changes,including a seated anchor and new lighting,along with the debut of a new series,”The Cost of Denial,” focusing on health and home ownership. Llamas, also host of “Top Story,” shared his excitement, reflecting on his heritage as the first latino anchor. News Directory 3 keeps you informed about the latest media moves. Discover what’s next for NBC Nightly News under the new anchor.
Tom Llamas Anchors First NBC Nightly News Broadcast
Updated June 3, 2025
Tom Llamas officially began his tenure as anchor of NBC Nightly News on Monday, leading wiht coverage of significant events, including the FBI’s investigation into a Boulder, Colo., attack as a potential act of terrorism. The debut broadcast maintained a focus on top news stories, signaling continuity for the evening news program.
Llamas acknowledged the transition at the broadcast’s close. “My thanks to all of you as we start this new adventure together,” Llamas said. “Tonight and always, we are here for you. Thank you for watching.”
Llamas takes over the anchor chair from Lester Holt,whose decade-long run concluded May 30. The broadcast originated from Studio 1A at Rockefeller Center in New York, the same location as the today show. Subtle changes included Llamas being seated during the opening and darker studio lighting.
Al Roker, a Today show veteran, joined Llamas in the studio, providing weather updates and humorously noting Llamas had “the new anchor smell.”
The broadcast also premiered ”The Cost of Denial,” a new series focusing on healthcare and home ownership costs related to insurance coverage. Additionally, the program’s upbeat segment was renamed “There’s Good News Tonight.”
Llamas continues to host his NBC News Now streaming show, Top Story with Tom Llamas, which has also moved to Studio 1A. Earlier on Monday, Llamas appeared on Today, recounting advice from Holt and reflecting on his role as the first Latino, and son of Cuban immigrants, to anchor the program.
“To know that they came here with nothing and now I’m going to anchor Nightly News… that is the American dream,” Llamas said.
What’s next
Llamas is expected to continue focusing on in-depth reporting and maintaining the established tone of NBC Nightly News while incorporating his own style and viewpoint into the broadcast.