Brian Williams, the NBC Nightly News host, has been suspended for six months without pay, according to reports.
Williams was suspended following an internal NBC investigation. Williams last week said that he made up bits of a story in 2003, claiming he was in a military helicopter that was shot by an RPG in Iraq.
“The suspension will be without pay and is effective immediately,” NBC News President Deborah Turness wrote to staff members. “We let Brian know of our decision earlier today. Lester Holt will continue to substitute Anchor the NBC Nightly News.”
The CEO of NBCUniversal, Steve Burke, said he met with Williams on Tuesday, CNN reported.
Burke wrote in a statement on Tuesday evening, “By his actions, Brian has jeopardized the trust millions of Americans place in NBC News. His actions are inexcusable and this suspension is severe and appropriate.”
Burke continued, “Brian’s life’s work is delivering the news. I know Brian loves his country, NBC News and his colleagues. He deserves a second chance and we are rooting for him. Brian has shared his deep remorse with me and he is committed to winning back everyone’s trust.”
Over the weekend, Williams said he would step down voluntarily for a few days. But NBC decided to take it a step further, and it announced Tuesday night that Williams won’t be back for half a year.
Lester Holt will continue to fill in for him.
