NBC Nightly News anchor Brian Williams announced today that he will be "stepping away" from the program in light of the revelation that he lied about being shot down in a helicopter while covering the Iraq War. Williams will be replaced by Lester Holt during his absence.
Williams claimed that he has become a distraction and "too much a part of the news." It is unknown when he is planning to return.
"In the midst of a career spent covering and consuming news, it has become painfully apparent to me that I am presently too much a part of the news, due to my actions.
"As managing editor of NBC Nightly News, I have decided to take myself off of my daily broadcast for the next several days, and Lester Holt has kindly agreed to sit in for me to allow us to adequately deal with this issue. Upon my return, I will continue my career-long effort to be worthy of the trust of those who place their trust in us."
People on Twitter had some interesting analysis of Williams' brief departure:
Juan Williams gets sacked by NPR for saying he was scared, Brian Williams outright lies and gets a "time out" by NBC.
— Dina Fraioli (@DinaFraioli) February 7, 2015
brian williams will finally have time to guest star on girls
— Lana Berry (@Lana) February 7, 2015
$833,333 a month and u had to lie, what is wrong with you #BrianWilliams ? U hv one of the best, easiest, most over paid job and u LIED
— Ann McElhinney (@annmcelhinney) February 7, 2015
I think we're witnessing the end of the decade long Brian Williams era at NBC http://t.co/UnnY6TyFea
— Hunter Walker (@hunterw) February 7, 2015
Q: Who should replace Brian Williams? A: An extra episode of Wheel of Fortune. #NursingHomesRejoice
— David Burge (@iowahawkblog) February 7, 2015
Brian Williams did NOT have sexual relations with that woman, Miss Lewinsky.
— Kevin Eder (@keder) February 7, 2015