What to know about Tom Llamas, the Miami native who is leading NBC’s ‘Nightly News’
On June 2, 2025, Tom Llamas made headlines by becoming the first Hispanic anchor to lead a major network evening newscast as the new face of NBC’s “Nightly News.” This historic transition follows the retirement of longtime anchor Lester Holt and has been celebrated across the journalism community as a significant step for diversity and representation in media.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born in 1979 to Cuban immigrant parents, Tom Llamas grew up in the vibrant city of Miami, Florida. His background instilled in him a strong work ethic and a commitment to his roots. Llamas attended Belen Jesuit Preparatory School, where he developed an early interest in storytelling. His journalism journey began during his college years at Loyola University in New Orleans, where he earned dual degrees in broadcast journalism as well as drama and speech.
Before his rise to prominence, Llamas gained experience working as an intern at Telemundo 51 in South Florida. He honed his skills further as a production assistant at NBC News and eventually returned to Miami to work as a reporter for NBC6/WTVJ. These foundational roles allowed him to cover the local news landscape, leading to opportunities that would position him as a prominent figure in the industry.
Building a Reputation in Journalism
Throughout his journalism career, Tom Llamas has covered some of the most critical events in recent U.S. history. His reporting on devastating incidents such as Hurricane Katrina and the Virginia Tech shooting showcased not only his skills as a journalist but also his dedication to bringing stories to light that mattered to the public. His work has garnered numerous accolades, further solidifying his standing as a voice in journalism.
As Llamas emphasized the importance of representation, he became acutely aware of the influence he has on aspiring journalists. In interviews, he pointed out how children with Hispanic surnames can find inspiration and aspire to achieve high positions in media by seeing someone who looks like them in prominent roles. He has made it a personal mission to amplify voices and stories that are often overlooked, especially within the Hispanic community.
The Journey to NBC’s ‘Nightly News’
Before joining NBC’s “Nightly News,” Llamas served as ABC’s chief national affairs correspondent, where he demonstrated exceptional reporting skills while hosting weekend editions of “World News Tonight.” His ability to connect with viewers and provide nuanced insights into complex stories set him apart. With his move to NBC, he has maintained his weekly “Top Story with Tom Llamas” segment, further engaging audiences with deep dives into pivotal news stories.
As he steps into this new role at NBC, viewers can catch Tom Llamas on “Nightly News” at 6:30 p.m. each week. His appointment marks a significant moment not just for Llamas but also for Hispanic representation in media, paving the way for future generations. Llamas remains dedicated to journalism, integrity, and giving a voice to communities often left unheard.
