Early life
Lester Don Holt Jr. was born on March 8, 1959, at Hamilton Air Force Base in Marin County, California. His arrival marked the youngest chapter in a family of four. Raised by June (née DeRozario) and Lester Don Holt Sr., Lester’s background was a rich tapestry of cultural heritage. His father was African American, while his mother traced her roots to Jamaica.
Holt’s early years were shaped by a life on the move, beginning with a stint at Elmendorf Air Force Base in Alaska, where his father was stationed during the Vietnam War. These formative years in Alaska not only influenced Holt’s perspective but also ignited his early interest in storytelling and communication.
Education
Lester Holt’s academic path reflects his diverse interests and accomplishments. He graduated from Cordova High School in Rancho Cordova in 1977, setting the stage for his future endeavors. Although he pursued higher education in Government at California State University, he did not complete his degree. Nevertheless, Holt’s achievements in journalism have more than compensated for this, with several honorary degrees acknowledging his contributions to the field.
In 2015, Holt received an honorary degree, and in 2020, Rutgers University awarded him an honorary Doctorate in Humane Letters. This recognition continued with a 2023 honorary Doctorate in Humane Letters from Villanova University, underscoring his significant impact and dedication to journalism.
A Storied Career
Lester Holt’s career is a testament to his unwavering commitment to journalism and storytelling. His on-air journey began as a disc jockey at a local radio station in Anchorage, Alaska, an opportunity introduced by his elder brother. This initial role marked the beginning of a remarkable career that would span decades.
From 1981 to 2000, Holt’s career evolved through a series of influential positions. He started at CBS as a reporter for WCBS-TV in New York City and quickly advanced to roles including a weekend anchor at KNXT in Los Angeles. His return to WCBS-TV as a reporter and weekend anchor further cemented his reputation, leading to a pivotal move in 1986 to WBBM-TV in Chicago as an Evening News Anchor. During this period, Holt reported from some of the world’s most troubled regions, including El Salvador, Haiti, Iraq, Northern Ireland, and Somalia.
In 2000, Holt made a significant transition to NBC, initially as a substitute anchor for “Nightly News” and “Today.” Following the passing of co-anchor David Bloom, he became the full-time co-anchor of “Weekend Today,” later anchoring daily newscasts on MSNBC until 2005. Holt’s trajectory continued upward as he became the anchor for the weekend edition of “NBC Nightly News” in 2007. His role was further solidified in 2015 when he succeeded Brian Williams as the permanent anchor of the weekday edition, marking a new era for the program. As of now, Holt serves as the host of NBC’s “Dateline,” demonstrating his versatility and enduring relevance in the industry.
Notable Achievements and Contributions
Lester Holt’s career is marked by a series of noteworthy achievements. In 1998, he hosted a special for The History Channel that explored 9/11 conspiracy theories, showcasing his ability to tackle complex topics. His involvement with NBC Sports during the 2008 Summer Olympics highlighted his versatility as a sports-desk reporter. That same year, he narrated a Sci-Fi Channel documentary on actual crystal skulls.
Holt’s role as a moderator in the September 2016 Democratic presidential candidates debate and the American Presidential debate further cemented his position as a leading voice in journalism. His coverage of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 demonstrated his commitment to delivering critical information during a global crisis. Notably, his poignant monologue following the January 6 Capitol attack, where he criticized Trump and the culture of disinformation, showcased his courage and dedication to truth.
In 2022, Holt made headlines with an NBC News Special Report announcing the death of Queen Elizabeth II. His 2023 interview with Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi and his co-moderation of the third GOP Primary debate with Hugh Hewitt and Kristen Welker underscored his continued relevance and influence in global affairs. Known for his sign-off, “I’m Lester Holt; please take care of yourself, and each other. Good night,” he leaves a lasting impression on viewers.
In addition to his journalism career, Holt has made several cameo appearances in films and television shows, including “The Fugitive,” “Primal Fear,” “Miracle on 34th Street,” “U.S. Marshals,” “Law & Order,” and “30 Rock,” further showcasing his diverse talents.
Family
Lester Holt’s personal life is as compelling as his professional one. He is married to Carol Hagen, and together they have two sons, Stefan and Cameron. The Holt family resides in Manhattan, where Lester’s son Stefan has followed in his father’s footsteps, joining WNBC and sharing a broadcast flow with him.
Beyond journalism, Holt is an avid musician, playing the bass guitar and upright bass, which reflects his multifaceted interests. His faith is a central aspect of his life, and he attends the Church of Christ in New York, demonstrating his commitment to his spiritual beliefs.
Lester Holt’s life is a remarkable blend of personal dedication and professional excellence. From his early days in Alaska to becoming a prominent figure in global journalism, Holt’s journey is a testament to his resilience, versatility, and passion for storytelling. His contributions to journalism, combined with his personal achievements and interests, make him a distinguished and influential figure in today’s media landscape.