Brian Williams Suspended from NBC Nightly News for Six Months

Brian Williams, the managing editor and anchor of NBC Nightly News, has been suspended for six months without pay effective immediately, according to NBC News President Deborah Turness.

Lester Holt has stepped in for Williams as substitute anchor of NBC Nightly News.

As we previously reported, Williams announced an on-air leave of absence after NBC News confirmed he would be the subject of an internal investigation stemming from his claim that in 2003 while covering the U.S. invasion of Iraq, Williams was in a helicopter that was hit by enemy fire.

“Brian misrepresented events which occurred while he was covering the Iraq War in 2003,” Turness said in today’s memo. “It then became clear that on other occasions Brian had done the same while telling that story in other venues. This was wrong and completely inappropriate for someone in Brian’s position.”

CEO and President of NBCUniversal Steve Burke released the following statement:

“This has been a painful period for all concerned and we appreciate your patience while we gathered the available facts. 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. 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.”