Tom Brokaw Named Temporary Press Replacement

Veteran news anchor to fill in for the late Tim Russert through November

By Jovie Baclayon Jun 22, 2008 4:15 PMTags
Tom Brokaw, Tim RussertNBC

A familiar face will be sitting in the seat on Meet the Press left tragically vacant by Tim Russert's death.

Former NBC Nightly News anchor Tom Brokaw has been chosen to temporarily take over moderator duties on the Sunday morning news program, the network announced Sunday. The veteran reporter will lead the politically driven discussions through the November election.

"To have someone of Tom's stature step up and dedicate himself to ensuring its ongoing success is not only a testament to his loyalty to Tim, but his enduring commitment to NBC News and our viewers," said NBC News president Steve Capus in a statement.

Brokaw, 68, stepped down as anchor of the NBC Nightly News in 2004 after 21 years. Current NBC Nightly News anchor Brian Williams filled in on today's broadcast of Meet the Press.

Russert died of a heart attack on June 13 at the age of 58.