The New York Times reports that NBC will keep Brian Williams with the television network, but not in her former position. Lester Holt, who has been serving as interim anchor, is expected to be promoted to permanent anchor of NBC’s Nightly News.
CNN broke the story that NBC will likely announce Mr. Williams fate at the network on Thursday. NBC suspended Mr. Williams from his job without pay for six months, after an internal investigation on the anchor.
Mr. Williams had helmed the Nightly News, a top evening news programs, which attracted about 9.3 million viewers. His stature as a trusted figure was shattered after the Stars and Stripes broke the story that Mr. Williams misstated his role with a special operations team during war with Iraq in 2003.
Mr. Williams reputation unraveled as questions were raised about Mr. Williams past reporting, including Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The NBC quickly removed Mr. Williams as anchor in early February.
There is strong sentiment that Mr. Williams will join NBC’s cable offering MSNBC, which has struggled with ratings. It is not known whether the anchor will continue on with his existing five-year, $50 million dollar contract. Whether Williams will be able to rebuild his reputation and credibility behind the desk at MSNBC remains to be seen. At the very least, Americans will be watching.
