Lester Holt Biography
Lester Holt is an award-winning American journalist and television news anchor, best known for hosting NBC Nightly News and Dateline NBC. Holt, known for his calm attitude, integrity, and impartial reporting, has emerged as one of contemporary journalism’s most revered characters. With a four-decade career, he has covered some of today’s most major national and international stories.
Born Lester Don Holt Jr. on March 8, 1959, in Marin County, California, and grew up with a strong interest in radio and storytelling. His genuine interest in the world and ability to connect with people pushed him to seek a career in journalism.
Holt attended Cordova High School in Rancho Cordova, California, and began dabbling with radio broadcasting. He later attended California State University, Sacramento, specializing in administration, but left before graduating to work full-time as a reporter. His early radio career provided the groundwork for a lifetime committed to truth and public service via journalism.
Lester Holt Career
Holt began his professional career as a reporter for KCBS Radio in San Francisco before transitioning to television. His big break came in 1981, when he began working as a reporter and weekend anchor for WCBS-TV in New York City. His trustworthiness, professionalism, and adaptability immediately earned him respect.
Holt joined WBBM-TV in Chicago in 1986 and worked as a major anchor and reporter for over 14 years, covering everything from local politics to breaking events. His work in Chicago cemented his reputation as one of the Midwest’s most reliable journalists.
He joined MSNBC in 2000 and eventually became a major member of NBC News, when his career skyrocketed. He made history in 2015 when he was selected permanent anchor of NBC Nightly News, becoming the first African American to host a daily network nightly broadcast.
Throughout his career, Holt has covered big topics including as the Iraq War, the 2010 Haiti earthquake, Hurricane Katrina, and multiple US presidential elections. He is also the presenter of Dateline NBC, where his deep voice and compassionate narrative have earned him a fan favorite.
Holt has also garnered several awards, including multiple Emmys and the Robert F. Kennedy Journalism Award, and was named one of Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in the World in 2016. His dedication to fair and thorough reporting has made him a respected voice in American media.
Lester Holt Age
How old is Lester Holt? Holt is 66 years old as of 2025. He was born Lester Don Holt Jr. on March 8, 1959, in Marin County, California, USA. He celebrates his birthday every year on March 8th.
Lester Holt Family
Holt was born to June DeRozario and Lester Don Holt, Sr. His mother has Jamaican ancestry, while his father is of African American background. Holt’s diverse background has affected his worldview and journalistic perspective, instilling a strong awareness of cultural and socioeconomic variety.
Lester Holt’s Wife
Carol Hagen, Lester Holt’s wife, is a real estate professional who has been at his side for over 40 years. Their marriage is frequently praised for its endurance and stability in the hard realm of broadcast journalism. Stefan and Cameron Holt are the couple’s two sons. Stefan, like his father, works as a television news anchor in Chicago. Holt frequently thanks his family for their continuous support during his busy job.
Lester Holt’s Height
Holt stands approximately 6 feet 2 inches tall.
Lester Holt Net Worth
Holt has an estimated net worth of around $35 million as of 2025. His wealth has been accumulated through his long career in broadcast journalism, primarily from his roles.
Lester Holt’s Salary
Holt allegedly receives an annual salary of roughly $10 million from NBC. His earnings are thought to be a combination of his pay.
