NEW YORK (AP) — Lester Holt, a long-standing face of NBC’s “Nightly News” broadcast, has announced his upcoming departure from the anchor desk in the coming months. After a decade at the helm, Holt will be transitioning to a full-time role on NBC’s “Dateline” program while still maintaining ties with the network. The shift is set to occur early this summer, with no successor or exact date named for his replacement on “NBC Nightly News.”

In a note to colleagues, Holt expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside them and for the privilege of anchoring two of the most esteemed television news programs in history. Janelle Rodriguez, the executive vice president of NBC News Programming, commended Holt’s contributions to “Nightly News” and affirmed his enduring presence at NBC for years to come.

Holt’s affiliation with NBC dates back to 2000, eventually securing the permanent anchor position for “Nightly News” in 2015 after years of anchoring weekend editions. Alongside his role on “Nightly News,” Holt has been the principal anchor of “Dateline” since 2011, showcasing his versatility in delivering both breaking news and investigative reports.

With a weekly average viewership of approximately 7 million, “Nightly News” has been a cornerstone of NBC’s programming since its inception in 1948. Likewise, “Dateline,” now approaching its 33rd season, has become synonymous with true crime content and impactful storytelling, branching out into podcasts and TV adaptations.

Holt’s announcement coincides with a period of transition in the news landscape, following notable departures from other major networks like CBS and NBC’s dayside programming. As NBC undergoes structural changes with MSNBC’s spinoff, the network is reevaluating its prime time lineup a move reflective of broader shifts in the media industry.

The departure of seasoned anchors like Holt marks a continuation of the evolving media landscape, signaling changes in programming and leadership within major news organizations. As viewers adapt to new faces and formats, the legacy of anchors like Holt and the impact of their journalistic work will endure, shaping the future of broadcast news.