What is NBC Nightly News
NBC Nightly News is a long-running evening television newscast that delivers national and international reporting, politics, business, and cultural coverage. As one of the 'Big Three' nightly news programs in the United States, it aims to provide timely, accurate reporting to a broad audience. The program uses live reports, pre‑recorded segments, and on‑camera analysis to explain the stories shaping the day and their broader context.
Current Hosts and Key On‑Air Roles
As of mid‑2025, NBC Nightly News maintains a clear anchor structure focused on nightly delivery and rotating special coverage. The anchor serves as the primary host, supported by a set of recurring correspondents who contribute from the field and in the studio.
Primary Anchor
- Lester Holt – Weeknight Anchor; career journalist with extensive domestic and international experience.
Notable Contributors and Fill‑In Anchors
- Kate Snow – Senior National Correspondent; regular fill‑in anchor.
- Joe Fryer – National Correspondent; appears frequently and fills in as needed.
- Vicky Nguyen – Investigative and Consumer Correspondent; contributes across multiple NBC News platforms.
Air Schedule and Time Zone Details
NBC Nightly News follows a consistent weekly schedule on the NBC broadcast network, with the following standard timing.
| Day | Typical Local Air Time (ET) | Typical Local Air Time (PT) | Typical Local Air Time (CT) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | 6:30 pm | 3:30 pm | 5:30 pm |
| Tuesday | 6:30 pm | 3:30 pm | 5:30 pm |
| Wednesday | 6:30 pm | 3:30 pm | 5:30 pm |
| Thursday | 6:30 pm | 3:30 pm | 5:30 pm |
| Friday | 6:30 pm | 3:30 pm | 5:30 pm |
Note: Local stations may delay the program for syndicated content, public affairs shows, or live breaking coverage. If you want to confirm your local air time, check your station’s schedule page or your cable/satellite provider’s listings.
Historical Context and Evolution
Since its launch in 1970, NBC Nightly News has undergone anchor changes, format updates, and technological shifts while maintaining its core mission of nightly news delivery. The program has been anchored by several prominent journalists who have defined its tone and approach over the decades.
Notable Past Anchors
- John Chancellor – Longtime anchor in the 1970s and early 1980s; known for steady, authoritative delivery.
- Tom Brokaw – Anchor through the 1980s and 1990s; recognized for clear reporting during major national events.
- Brian Williams – Anchor in the 2000s and early 2010s; emphasized in-depth coverage and on‑scene reporting.
- Rock Center with Brian Williams – A related NBC news program that expanded the franchise beyond the nightly broadcast.
Where to Watch and Stream
Viewers can access NBC Nightly News through traditional broadcast television as well as multiple digital platforms. Availability may vary by location due to local agreements and network practices.
Linear TV and Cable
- NBC affiliate in most U.S. markets; check your local listings for channel number.
- Cable and satellite providers typically carry NBC in standard and high definition.
Streaming and On‑Demand
- Peacock – NBC’s streaming service; offers recent episodes and limited past episodes depending on plan.
- NBC.com and the NBC News app – Free streaming with local affiliate restrictions; may include full episodes and clips.
- Participating TV Everywhere services – If you have TV provider credentials, you may unlock full streaming access through supported apps.