Stepping into the shoes of a long-time fan favorite is never easy—but Tom Llamas isn’t trying to imitate anyone.
Since taking over NBC Nightly News from Lester Holt, the 46-year-old anchor has made it clear he’s bringing a different energy to the newsroom—one that’s bold, intense, and hard-charging.
And while his style is earning praise in some corners, it’s also ruffling a few feathers behind the scenes.
A New Leadership Style That’s Raising Eyebrows
According to insiders, Llamas is far more hands-on and assertive than his predecessor.
One staffer described his management style as “extremely challenging,” adding that he pushes people to think harder and elevate their work.
That kind of pressure might be invigorating for some, but it’s reportedly been tough for others used to Holt’s calm and easygoing demeanor.
“He’s not here to cruise,” said one correspondent.
“He challenges you. It raises the game.”
Energy That’s Impossible to Ignore
Llamas’ executive producer, Meghan Rafferty, backed that sentiment, calling the experience of working with him “super fun.”
But during a recent staff lunch at NBC headquarters in 30 Rock, Rafferty also announced she’s leaving to join MSNBC’s new parent company, Versant—a move sources say may also be partly influenced by the intense pace under Llamas’ leadership.
Filling Big Shoes After a Beloved Anchor’s Exit
Lester Holt, 66, stepped down from NBC Nightly News last spring after a decade at the helm.
While he continues to work with Dateline, he made it clear he wanted to get back into deeper storytelling and reporting from the field—away from the studio lights.
Fans loved Holt for his approachable, composed delivery, and his departure left a big gap that Llamas is now trying to fill.
And in doing so, he faces the added pressure of competing with ABC’s World News Tonight and its anchor David Muir—his former mentor.
Llamas Gains Ground With Younger Viewers
Even though Muir continues to dominate overall ratings—recently drawing over 7.2 million viewers compared to Llamas’ 5.6 million—Llamas has managed to score some wins.
In the key 25-54 age group, a prime demographic for advertisers, he has occasionally edged out Muir since his official start in June.
That success with younger viewers has reportedly caught the attention of ABC executives, who see Muir as a cornerstone of their news brand and aren’t thrilled about the rising competition from a former team member.
Balancing Two Roles Without Losing Steam
Llamas isn’t just leading NBC Nightly News.
He’s also continued anchoring Top Story on NBC News Now—a show he’s hosted since 2021.
And according to network insiders, that team has remained solid with little to no turnover, suggesting that his leadership, while intense, is working for some.
The Ratings Race He’s Hungry to Win
Llamas hasn’t shied away from acknowledging the challenge ahead.
“It’s not easy,” he told The Washington Post, “but it’s something I think we can do.”
His drive to take NBC back to the top is evident, and it’s clear he’s not just playing it safe.
Meanwhile, ABC continues to ride the momentum built since Muir took over from Diane Sawyer, enjoying its best second-quarter ratings in 30 years.
Not Everyone’s on Board With the New Pace
Still, the adjustment to Llamas’ style isn’t coming easy for everyone.
Compared to Holt’s quiet, steady leadership—which The New York Times once described as “low-key and unassuming”—Llamas’ take-charge approach has been a bit jarring for some NBC veterans.
One insider said the shift in tone at Nightly News has created a different kind of workplace dynamic—one that might not suit everyone used to a gentler pace.
What’s Next for NBC Nightly News?
Llamas is only two months into this high-profile role, and the real test will be how viewers—and the newsroom—respond over time.
For now, he’s energizing the brand with a youthful, ambitious edge.
But whether that energy translates into long-term ratings dominance remains to be seen.
NBC News hasn’t commented on the internal buzz, but with the nightly news race heating up, all eyes will be on how this bold new era unfolds.
