Who is Tom Llamas?
Tom Llamas is an acclaimed American journalist known for his sharp reporting and dynamic presence on television. He has built an impressive career in broadcast journalism, covering major national and international news stories. Currently working for NBC News, Llamas has previously held key positions at ABC News, where he served as the chief national correspondent and weekend anchor of “World News Tonight.”
Tom Llamas’ Early Life and Family Background
Born on July 2, 1979, in Miami, Florida, Llamas comes from a Cuban-American family. His parents immigrated to the United States from Cuba, seeking freedom and opportunities in a new land. Llamas often speaks about his Cuban heritage and how it has influenced his career and perspectives in journalism.
Tom Llamas’ Education and Career Beginnings
Llamas attended Loyola University in New Orleans, where he earned bachelor’s degrees in Broadcast Journalism and Drama and Speech. He was also a member of the LA Gamma chapter of Sigma Phi Epsilon, a social fraternity.
Llamas began his broadcasting career in 2000 with the NBC News Specials Unit and later moved to MSNBC, where he worked from 2000 to 2005, covering politics. After that, he transitioned to NBC’s WTVJ in Miami. In 2009, he moved to New York and joined WNBC and NBC News as a general-assignment reporter and anchor.
Tom Llamas’ Rise in Journalism
In September 2014, Llamas joined ABC News as a New York-based correspondent and substituted for David Muir on “ABC World News Tonight” over the Christmas 2014 period. By 2015, he had become the Sunday anchor of “ABC World News Tonight” and, in January 2017, took over as the sole weekend anchor.
During the 2016 U.S. presidential campaign, Llamas spent the year covering Republican candidates. He notably criticized Jeb Bush and Donald Trump for using the term “anchor baby” and was called a “sleaze” by Trump after questioning him about his charitable donations.
In January 2021, Llamas announced his departure from ABC News and returned to NBC News. His final broadcast on ABC was on January 31, 2021. By April 2021, he had been named senior national correspondent for NBC News and launched a primetime newscast for NBC News Now, “Top Story with Tom Llamas,” which debuted on May 3, 2021. The show was later rebroadcast overnight on NBC affiliates, replacing a replay of “Today’s” fourth hour in March 2022.
Tom Llamas Takes Over NBC Nightly News
On March 5, 2025, NBC News announced Tom Llamas as the successor to Lester Holt as the anchor of “NBC Nightly News,” beginning in the summer of 2025. Llamas will continue to anchor “Top Story.”
This transition has been long anticipated, as many in the industry viewed Llamas’ appointment at NBC in 2021 as a strategic move positioning him as Holt’s successor. Llamas expressed his gratitude, calling the opportunity “a profound honor and one that carries tremendous responsibility.”
While evening newscasts no longer hold the same influence they once did, “NBC Nightly News” still draws an average of 6.3 million viewers per night, making it a critical part of NBC’s lineup.
Tom Llamas’ Personal Life: Wife, Children, and Family
Llamas is married to Jennifer Llamas, a fellow journalist and producer. The couple has three children. The family previously lived in Midtown Manhattan before relocating to Purchase, New York, in 2022. Llamas and his wife are Catholic.
Tom Llamas’ Net Worth and Salary
Llamas has an estimated net worth of around $5 million. His income primarily comes from his work as a journalist and news anchor. At NBC, his annual salary is estimated to be between $1 million and $2 million, reflecting his high-profile status in the industry.
Tom Llamas’ Awards and Achievements
Llamas has won multiple awards throughout his career. He received an Emmy Award for “Best Anchor” and “Best Hard News Story.” Additionally, he won a regional Edward R. Murrow Award for WNBC-TV’s coverage of Hurricane Sandy. His first Emmy, awarded in 2008, recognized his work as the first TV journalist to cover a human smuggling interdiction at sea with the U.S. Coast Guard. He also won an Emmy in 2013 for his coverage of Hurricane Irene.
Tom Llamas’ Spanish-Speaking Ability and Latino Heritage
As a proud Cuban-American, Llamas speaks fluent Spanish and has covered many stories in both English and Spanish throughout his career. His ability to communicate in Spanish has allowed him to connect with Latino audiences and report on issues affecting Hispanic communities in the U.S. and beyond.
Where is Tom Llamas Today?
Llamas is currently active at NBC News, hosting “Top Story with Tom Llamas” on NBC News Now. Even after taking over as the lead anchor of “NBC Nightly News,” he will continue to host “Top Story” from 7 to 8 each weeknight, extending his on-air presence to 90 minutes per evening.
What Ethnicity is Tom Llamas?
Llamas is of Latino ethnicity, specifically Cuban-American. His heritage plays a significant role in his journalistic approach, allowing him to bring diverse perspectives to mainstream media.
Tom Llamas on Social Media
Tom Llamas is active on social media, where he shares news updates, behind-the-scenes content, and personal insights. You can follow him on:
- Twitter/X: @LlamasNBC
- Instagram: @LlamasNBC
Tom Llamas on Wikipedia
Tom has a dedicated Wikipedia page that details his career milestones, background, and personal life. His page is frequently updated with the latest developments in his professional journey.
Conclusion
Tom Llamas is set to take on one of the most prestigious roles in American television journalism as the new anchor of “NBC Nightly News.” With his Latino heritage, bilingual skills, and strong journalistic integrity, he is well-positioned to make a significant impact. As he steps into this historic role, his influence on the industry will only continue to grow. Stay tuned for more updates on his career and future at NBC.
