Tom Llamas Steps Into Anchor Role on 'NBC Nightly News'

Tom Llamas is anchor and managing editor of NBC Nightly News with Tom Llamas at 6:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. CT and anchor of Top Story with Tom Llamas at 7 p.m. ET, a daily streaming primetime newscast on NBC News NOW.

Llamas has been in broadcast journalism for over 25 years, with deep roots at NBC News throughout his career. He began his broadcast career as an intern for a Telemundo local station, eventually working with the NBC News’ Special Unit and then taking on the role of an NBC News campaign embed in 2003. He also held roles in local news, including at WTVJ in South Florida as a general assignment reporter and WNBC in New York, where he served as an anchor and investigative reporter.

What is something you’ve learned from Lester Holt that you’re excited to take with you at “Nightly News?”

I’ve been fortunate to have known Lester as a friend and mentor since I was 21. Father to father, he’s given me great advice on how to manage family and work life, and I know he is always still there if I have any questions. I am honored to be continuing to build upon the outstanding newscast he has built over the past decade.

What inspired you to follow a career in broadcast journalism?

I grew up watching a lot of news with my family, and we were constantly talking about current events, politics, etc. Early on in high school, when I realized that this was actually a career I could pursue, I knew it was exactly what I wanted to do. I began interning in a newsroom at 15, and never looked back!

What key lessons have you learned throughout your career?

Always make sure you’re building someone up. Someone helped me throughout every phase of my career. An experienced photographer, a veteran anchor, a great manager. As you rise up, never forget to lift up. There's always someone in the newsroom, in your work space, that could use a mentor and that could use some advice.

Do you have any routines or rituals that help you become grounded or stay grounded before broadcast? 

I work out in the morning and also meditate and pray throughout the day, which helps me prepare mentally and physically. 

What is your favorite thing to do outside of work?

I love to just be with my family – my wife and three kids. My weekends are filled with coaching my son in baseball, going to my daughters’ gymnastics meets and plays, and in the nice weather – grilling outside. We are also massive Yankees fans.