After months of speculation and circulating rumors, NBC News is reportedly very close to announcing that Lester Holt will officially be replacing Brian Williams as the permanent anchor of NBC Nightly News. While the network originally suspended Williams more than four months ago for lying about his experiences in the field, they had reportedly hoped to be able to bring him back. As time has passed, it has become increasingly apparent that Williams prime gig anchoring the most watched nightly news program is a thing of the past.
According to a report by PIX11 in NYC, "Williams is unlikely to return to the anchor chair when his suspension is up. Negotiations between NBC executives and Williams' attorney are focused on two potential paths: a new role for Williams, or an exit from the network. Either path leaves Holt in the anchor chair - unless NBC surprises everyone and risks destabilizing the show by appointing a new anchor. (Calling that scenario exceedingly unlikely is an understatement.) So Holt, through the worst of circumstances, is stepping up to one of the best jobs in television journalism." explains an insider.
Before sitting in as anchor of NBC Nightly News, Holt did basically everything else at the network. He anchored Weekend Today, was a regular fixture on Dateline NBC and also reported regularly from the field. He also has something going for him that Williams never has, everyone likes Holt. His lack of arrogance and ego has made him a favorite behind the scenes at NBC for more than 15 years.
Do you think that the network would be wise to formally replace Williams with Holt? If so, should they just announce it already and put an end to the rumors and speculation once and for all? Do you think that Williams will take a lesser position if it's offered? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below!
