Lester Holt, Bio, Age, Parents, Wife, Hobbies, Career, Net Worth

Lester Holt, Biography

Lester Holt is a beacon of diversity and a paragon of journalistic integrity in the media landscape. He started his career with CBS in 1981 before, nineteen years later, transitioning to NBC. On June 18, 2025, Holt made history and became the first black male solo anchor of a major newscast by taking over the helm of the weekday edition of NBC Nightly News. He earned widespread acclaim for his role as moderator in the 2016 presidential debate. His credibility was underscored when a 2018 poll ranked him as America’s most trusted TV news anchor. NBC Nightly News maintains a position of prominence thanks to his tenure at the program. He maintains a position of prominence, and influence, successfully gaining the trust of his viewers.

Lester Holt, Age and Birthday

Every time we mark the birthday of Lester Holt, it is the perfect time to reflect on the career of a man who has become a trusted name in American Journalism. Born on March 8, 1959, Lester Holt spent his early years in Hamilton Air Force Base. Marin County California. This would lay the foundation for a career that would see the 65-year-old break barriers and set new standards in journalism.

Letser Holt, Education

Young Lester Don Holt Jr embarked on his educational journey at Cordova High School in Rancho Cordova and graduated in 1977. With a great passion for government, he went to California State University, Sacramento, to major in the subject. However, aspirations in broadcasting stood in his way to getting a degree and he left college. Despite not holding a formal degree, his dedication to his craft weas recognized, and in 2015, he received an honorary degree from California State University Sacramento. The honor was followed by honorary doctorates in humanities from Rutgers University in 2022 and Villanova University in 2023.

Lester Holt, Parents

Lester is the youngest of four children born to Lester Don Holt Sr who was a sergeant in the Air Force during the Vietnam War. His mother, June DeRozario, was a regional planner. The couple’s dedication to service and community influenced Lester’s career path and commitment to delivering news with integrity.
His father is an African American, while his mother is from Jamaica; hence, Holt has a rich intercontinental heritage. His half-brother, Mike “Swani” Swanigan, shared insights into their family life, revealing that discussions about current and world affairs were common at the dinner table. These obviously sparked Lester’s fascination with current events and led him to pursue a career in journalism.

Lester Holt, Career

Renowned for his dedication to the truth, Lester Holt has become a household name in American journalism. With a career spanning over four decades, his journey from a radio DJ to the anchor chair of NBC Nightly News is a testament to his hard work and talent. He began his broadcasting career in 1981 with CBS, honing his skills as a reporter and anchor. His dedication propelled him to the forefront of broadcast journalism. In 2015, he became the first male solo anchor of a major network newscast when he took the reins of NBC Nightly News.

His reputation for fairness has earned him trust among viewers in America, and in 2018, he was ranked the most trusted news anchor in America. Lester’s work has garnered several accolades, including the Walter Cronkite Award for excellence in journalism. His career serves as an inspiration to aspiring journalists everywhere, proving that integrity and dedication can have an everlasting impact on the world of news.

Lester Holt, Height and Weight

Lester Holt’s height and weight are more than just numbers. They are part of the holistic images of a journalist who has risen to the heights of his profession. Whenever he delivers the news, his physical attributes remain a subtle yet integral part of his enduring appeal. Standing at a commanding 6 feet 2 inches (1.88 m), his height has been a subject of interest for many as it adds to his authoritative on-screen presence. By maintaining a healthy weight of 76 kilograms (167.5 pounds), he has shown that his commitment to fitness is just as steadfast as his journalistic integrity. He remains at the top of his game, both physically and professionally. His height gives him visibility that complements his clear, deep voice and calm demeanor.

Lester Holt, Wife, and Children

Few partnerships are as enduring and supportive as the one between Lester Holt and his wife, Carol Hage-Holt. Married since 1982, she has been a steadfast presence in Lester’s life, offering unwavering support through the highs and lows of his career. Together, they have raised two children, Stefan and Cameron, and built a life full of laughter and mutual respect.

Lester Holt, Hobbies

When he is not delivering the news with poise and professionalism, Holt would be strumming away at a bass guitar. He also loves the sky, and as a licensed pilot, he embodies the spirit of adventure. His passion for aviation extends beyond just flying; it is about the freedom and perspective that come with soaring above the clouds. Outdoors, he either cycles, skis, or gardens. Even the most public of figures have private passions that enrich their lives.

Lester Holt, Wiki/Quick facts

Name: Lester Don Holt Jr.
Born: March 8, 1959 (age 65)
Birthplace: Hamilton Air Force Base, California, U.S.
Education: California State University, Sacramento (no degree)
Occupations: Journalist/news anchor
Years active: 1981–present
Employer(s): CBS (1981–2000)
NBC (2000–present)
Notable spells: NBC Nightly News weeknight anchor (2015–present)
Weekend Today co-anchor (2003–2015)
NBC Nightly News weekend anchor (2007–2015)
Dateline NBC anchor (2011–present)
Television: CBS News (1981–2000)
NBC News (2000–present)
Term: Anchor of NBC Nightly News and NBC Nightly News Kids Edition
Predecessor: Brian Williams
Political party: Independent (2018–present)
Republican (until 2018)
Spouse: Carol Hagen (m. 1982)
Children: 2, including Stefan Holt
Net worth: $35 million.

Lester Holt, Salary and Net Worth

The paragon of journalistic integrity and success has a net worth estimated at a staggering $35 million and earns an annual salary of $10 million.

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