Brian Williams Moves to MSNBC, Apologizes for Losing Audience's Trust

"Lester has done outstanding work for NBC News over the last ten years, and he's performed remarkably well over the last few months under very tough circumstances," Lack said. "He's an exceptional anchor who goes straight to the heart of every story and is always able to find its most direct connection to the everyday lives of our audience. In many ways, television news stands at a crossroads, and Lester is the perfect person to meet the moment."

Holt, who joined NBC in 2000, has been serving as the "Nightly News" anchor since Williams was suspended in February after allegations surfaced that he misrepresented his involvement in a 1993 reporting trip to Iraq.

"I'm sorry. I said things that weren't true," said Williams. "I let down my NBC colleagues and our viewers, and I'm determined to earn back their trust. I will greatly miss working with the team on 'Nightly News,' but I know the broadcast will be in excellent hands with Lester Holt as anchor. I will support him 100% as he has always supported me. I am grateful for the chance to return to covering the news. My new role will allow me to focus on important issues and events in our country and around the world, and I look forward to it."

Lack and Steve Burke, CEO of NBCU, have decided that Williams will return to MSNBC -- where he worked from 1996 to 2004 -- as anchor of breaking news and special reports. He will work with Mark Lukasiewicz, SVP of Special Reports for NBCU News Group.

Burke thanked Holt for stepping "into the anchor chair in a trying time and has really come through for us."

"We are lucky to have him and I know he will continue to do great things at NBC News for years to come," he said, adding that "As you would imagine, this was a difficult decision. Brian Williams has been with NBC News for a very long time and he has covered countless news events with honor and skill. As I said in February, we believe in second chances, and I am hopeful that this new beginning will be good for Brian and the organization. This matter has been extensively analyzed and deliberated on by NBC. We are moving forward."

Matt Lauer has also conducted an interview with Brian Williams. It will air on "Today" on Friday morning and on "NBC Nightly News" on Friday evening.