Movies

What Lester Holt told Tom Llamas before handing over ‘NBC Nightly News’

BBG News

In the year 2000, Tom Llamas made his initial entrance into NBC’s main office at Rockefeller Center, stepping in as a greenhorn intern.

On Monday, he made television news history by becoming the fifth anchor of “NBC Nightly News” and the first Latino journalist to lead a daily English-language network evening newscast. Notably, his mentor, Jose Diaz-Balart, presents the Saturday edition of “Nightly News”.

45-year-old Llamas steps into Lester Holt’s role permanently, as Holt transitions fully to hosting “Dateline” on NBC following a decade in the anchor position. Llamas will continue to serve as the anchor for “Top Story,” which is an hour-long live news broadcast on NBC News Now’s free streaming platform.

Born to Cuban parents in Miami, Llamas has maintained close connections there (notable figures like pop sensation Gloria Estefan and “Sabado Gigante” host Don Francisco were present at a Florida event celebrating his recent promotion). Currently residing in Westchester County, New York, he shares his life with his spouse Jennifer, along with their three children aged 12, 9, and 7. Additionally, his passion for vinyl records has led to the construction of a dedicated space in their home, filled with treasures amassed over a decade of record hunting during his global travels on assignments.

He recently spoke with The Times about his new role.

Back when you were a 21-year-old production assistant at NBC News, Lester Holt was already a familiar face to you. Can you share some words of wisdom or guidance that he offered you for your new position?

He’s deeply committed to his job, which is why I inquired about it since my children have always recognized me as a news correspondent and anchor on television. However, he warned me that my life would undergo significant changes. He explained that numerous people will seek my attention and there will be greater demands than I’ve ever encountered before.

He’s been correct in that regard. He advised, “You must choose wisely when it comes to your career and family.” My spouse and children are aware of instances where I might be at a little league game or a school play, but then I have to hurry off on a flight due to breaking news. They comprehend my actions. However, we frequently discuss these situations, and they can be challenging.

Do your children watch “NBC Nightly News” and “Top Story”?

Oh yeah.

As a movie buff, I found myself in an unusual role recently – teaching my 7-year-old about politics. He was sharing with his classmates the events surrounding President Biden’s resignation and Vice President Kamala Harris taking over the presidential nomination. It wasn’t easy to explain such complex concepts, but we managed. That very night, during last summer’s Hurricane Milton, a transformer blew up right above us, adding an unexpected element of fear to the situation. My phone buzzed with texts and calls immediately after.

Occasionally, we need to switch off because they get engrossed for too long. However, they’re very connected with the world; they keep up-to-date on current events. It’s much like my upbringing. We used to watch news in both English and Spanish, reaching back as far as I can recall. This was because my parents were always eager for news from Cuba.

What are your early news viewing memories?

Every time Fidel Castro was scheduled for an interview, it felt like a significant event that sparked much discussion at home. My parents would tune in, assess the interview’s fairness, and engage in thoughtful conversations about it. This ongoing discourse on fairness has shaped my understanding of its importance and influenced my perception of how audiences respond to it.

Did that inspire you to go into the profession?

The news seemed more like a proof of its significance rather than an inspiration for me. It’s simply because my family found it essential. They desired updates about their homeland and the United States. They trusted and paid attention to these broadcasters.

Hollywood Inc.

Shifts in anchor personnel are causing significant upheaval in one of the remaining consistent behaviors associated with conventional television watching. In fact, two out of the three nightly news programs broadcast by networks are currently undergoing extensive makeovers.

What made the powers that be decide that you should keep doing “Top Story” while doing “Nightly”?

It was actually my idea.

Currently, it’s crucial to maintain a strong presence in this nation, as I didn’t want to compromise the foundation we’ve built over three and a half years. Recently, we were nominated for an Emmy alongside esteemed news programs such as “Nightly News,” “ABC World News Tonight,” and the “CBS Evening News.” Being recognized in this group, with our three-year-old streaming show, is one of my greatest career accomplishments. This was a new venture, and many doubted we could make it work. But we have proven them wrong.

In essence, President Trump appears to have taken a stance against policies promoting diversity, fairness, and inclusivity.
[The Federal Communications Commission has proposed examining NBC’s parent company Comcast over allegations of discrimination based on these same values: diversity, equity, and inclusion.]
Has this investigation affected the historic accomplishment of being the first Latino to anchor an English-speaking nightly news broadcast?

It seems more likely that I didn’t get the job due to my skills and qualifications, but rather because I was chosen as the most suitable candidate for the position. I am confident that NBC shares this belief.

In another way:

It appears that it wasn’t my ethnicity that secured me the job, but rather my abilities and suitability for the role. And I firmly believe NBC recognizes this as well.

I take great pride in sharing my life journey. My parents arrived in this land with virtually nothing – no money, little understanding of the language, and yet they were granted a fresh start. This remarkable nation offered them a new home, and in return, they instilled in me the values of hard work and love for the country. I can honestly say that I adore this place, believing it to be unsurpassed anywhere else on Earth. My appointment as anchor of “Nightly News” serves as proof that the American Dream endures.

Even though you’re part of the digital streaming era for music, it’s intriguing to know that you also own a vinyl record collection. Can you share how that came about?

Approximately a decade ago, I visited my friend’s residence in Los Angeles, where he owned a record player. I recall him playing the “Sticky Fingers” album by the Rolling Stones. We simply relaxed and enjoyed the music together. It struck me as an exceptional moment.

I discovered an enjoyable aspect of owning records: not only do I appreciate listening to them, but also hunting for them, gathering unique pressings, and even finding foreign versions like Wilson Pickett’s from Spain or Beatles albums with bilingual liner notes and covers. My room dedicated to these records resembles a jukebox, serving as my reading spot, preparation area for significant election nights, and a place where I unwind for hours, helping me relax.

What’s on your turntable at the moment?

Currently, I’m immersed in the rhythmic era of Hard Bop music, so I’ve been spinning a lot of Art Blakey and Cannonball Adderley tunes. I’ve been on a quest for outstanding live performances. Recently, I acquired an impressive five-album collection from Bruce Springsteen, spanning his dynamic years during the late ’70s to the ’80s. Another remarkable album I discovered is Elvis Presley’s “From Elvis in Memphis.” He recorded this gem in 1969, a time when Jimi Hendrix was skyrocketing and Woodstock was underway. It’s a quintessentially American album with heartfelt songs, backed by the Memphis Boys.

You have good taste in music.

I appreciate it.

Read More

2025-06-01 16:31

Previous post Shiba Inu’s 3-Month Low: Is SHIB About to Rocket or Sink?
Next post CIA Expert Evaluates Tom Cruise’s Most Daring Mission Impossible Stunt