Brian Williams probably won't be an anchor again -- but NBC may make him something else

NBC News chairman Andy Lack is reportedly "contorting to figure out a way to keep Brian"

Published June 1, 2015 12:50PM (EDT)

Brian Williams                       (AP/Evan Agostini)
Brian Williams (AP/Evan Agostini)

When an investigation into "NBC Nightly News'" anchor Brian Williams' reporting revealed that he had embellished or fabricated stories at least 11 times, it was hard to imagine Williams returning to the network he had so badly embarrassed.

Now, as negotiations between Williams and NBC come to a close, there are several possible outcomes. The first is that Williams leaves the network after a financial settlement. The second, and slightly more intriguing option, is that Williams will be offered a different role at NBC News.

CNN reports that to an anonymous source, NBC News chairman Andy Lack is "contorting to figure out a way to keep Brian," asking employees at one meeting to "think creatively about a new role" for him.

ON CNN's "Reliable Sources," Brian Stelter reported that Williams' new role wouldn't necessarily be in the news division, it could be at MSNBC or the entertainment side of the the network. Still, Williams' depleted credibility would prove to be an obstacle in any sort of reporting position.

Williams is currently suspended without pay from the network. Meanwhile, Lester Holt has filled in as "Nightly News" anchor, earning ratings that are comparably high to the former host's. 


By Joanna Rothkopf

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Andrew Lack Brian Williams Credibility Fabrications Lester Holt Nbc Nbc News Network News