Tom Llamas Steps into the Spotlight: How NBC Nightly News Ratings Stack Up After Lester Holt’s Exit

The transition from a broadcasting icon to a fresh face is never easy, but Tom Llamas has taken on the challenge with gusto as he steps into the anchor chair for NBC Nightly News, succeeding the legendary Lester Holt. Holt, a trusted figure in American journalism, shocked viewers when he announced his departure, leaving big shoes to fill. Since Llamas’ debut on June 2, the first wave of ratings has rolled in, offering a glimpse into how the new anchor is faring in the high-stakes world of nightly news. The numbers paint a complex picture—one that’s both promising and challenging for Llamas as he carves out his place in the spotlight.

In his inaugural week, Llamas drew a respectable 5.449 million total viewers, with 771,000 in the coveted 25–54 demographic and 524,000 in the 18–49 age group, according to TV Insider. While these figures are solid, they pale in comparison to ABC’s World News Tonight, anchored by David Muir, which commanded a dominant 6.997 million viewers, including 907,000 in the 25–54 demo and 597,000 in the 18–49 group. Muir’s broadcast outpaced Llamas by a significant 28% in total viewers, a wider gap than the 17% lead ABC held over NBC during Holt’s final week. The adults 25–54 demographic, a key metric for advertisers, saw an even starker contrast, with Muir surging ahead by 136,000 viewers—a margin 157% greater than the gap between Muir and Holt in the same demo.

Despite the uphill battle, there’s a silver lining for NBC. Nightly News with Tom Llamas showed resilience by retaining more of its audience year-over-year than any other major newscast. Notably, it was the only program to see growth in the 18–49 demographic, a critical win for advertisers who prioritize younger viewers. This achievement suggests that Llamas is connecting with a segment of the audience that could help secure the program’s long-term relevance, even as it trails ABC in raw numbers. CBS Evening News, by comparison, lagged behind in third place with 3.903 million viewers, 518,000 in the 25–54 demo, and 386,000 in the 18–49 group, underscoring the competitive edge NBC still holds over its rival.

Llamas, aware of the weight of his new role, addressed the transition with humility and respect for his predecessor. In a March statement, he called anchoring NBC Nightly News a “profound honor” and praised Holt as “one of the most trusted broadcasters of our time.” Llamas pledged to uphold the same dedication to truth and viewer trust that defined Holt’s tenure. This sentiment resonates with fans, many of whom have rallied behind Llamas despite the ratings gap. Social media reactions reflect a mix of nostalgia for Holt and optimism for Llamas’ future. One viewer called Llamas a “class act” on Instagram, while another dubbed Holt “the GOAT” but expressed excitement for NBC’s new chapter. A particularly touching comment came from a fan who shared how their daughter once said “Lesterday” instead of “yesterday,” a testament to Holt’s presence in their household.

The road ahead for Llamas is undoubtedly challenging. Stepping into Holt’s role means not only competing with powerhouse anchors like Muir but also winning over a loyal audience accustomed to Holt’s steady presence. Yet, the early ratings suggest Llamas is holding his own, with signs of growth in key areas. As he settles into the anchor chair, his ability to blend fresh energy with the credibility of NBC’s storied broadcast will be critical. For now, the numbers tell a story of a new era—one where Llamas is making his mark, even if the shadow of a legend looms large.