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Who is Lester Holt, NBC’s new 'Nightly News' anchor?
IMAGE: NBC, UNIVERSAL
Lester Holt may not be the permanent NBC Nightly News anchor. But in the wake of Brian William's suspension, he will occupy the chair for the next six months.
Holt, who joined NBC in 2000, is a known quantity to frequent Today Weekend and Datelineviewers, but may be something of a mystery to the rest of us.
As with any TV personality, especially a seasoned newsman like Holt, 55, there’s lots and lots of tape to tell the tale. Here’s a look at the former local Chicago news anchor who just stepped into America’s number one evening news show.
Chicagoan
In the 1990’s Lester Holt was a popular, and surprisingly mustachioed, Chicago news anchor.
Family Man
Holt has been married to his wife Carol since 1982. His son, Stefan is a news anchor in — you guessed it – Chicago. Holt has even co-anchored with Stefan.
Holt’s family feted him on air for his 10-year Today anniversary.
Sense of humor
Suspended NBC anchor Brian Williams is well known for his sense of humor, but Holt could give him a run for his money.
For example, he’s had a fake friendship with Late Night host Seth Meyers.
Holt has also spoken the lyrics to Boys II Men’s I’ll Make Love to You, which even he admitted ended up sounding creepy.
Grace under pressure
The evening news is live; that means anything can happen or go wrong. Holt knows that sometimes the best way to handle this is to act like nothing is wrong.
Musical
We always hope people in the public eye are not as two-dimensional as their Teleprompters, so it's good to know that Holt has many skills. He can play the bass and electric guitar:
When pressed, he can also rap.
He can even dance, but perhaps only when Today Show weatherman Al Roker is present.
Though the evening anchor job doesn’t call for it, Holt can, in a pinch, act.
Especially anytime Harrison Ford is framed by a one-armed man.
He cares
Holt will, when necessary, pitch in with a useful public service message.
Daredevil
Put him in a jet and Lester Holt will not lose his lunch.
Should you need to know more about Holt, you can always read his full bio right here.
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