The Love Story: How Lester and Carol Met

Lester Holt and Carol Hagen's love story began in the bustling atmosphere of California, where Carol was working as a flight attendant. Their fateful meeting occurred while Lester was a radio reporter for KCBS Radio, sparking an instant connection that would last a lifetime.

On one of their early dates, the couple's adventure took an unexpected turn when Lester received a call to cover a breaking news story— a forest fire in Napa Valley. Instead of canceling the date, he invited Carol to join him. Intrigued, she embraced the excitement, understanding the passion that fueled his career.

Their relationship blossomed rapidly, with Lester seizing a new opportunity in New York City. Carol, demonstrating her unwavering support, followed him across the country, culminating in their wedding at the Mark Hopkins Hotel in San Francisco on May 8, 1982. Their commitment to each other laid the foundation for a loving family and a remarkable partnership.

Through years of change and growth, Carol has remained a steadfast presence in Lester's life. She fell in love with the man behind the camera, cherishing their shared experiences rather than the fame associated with his career. Together, they have navigated life's challenges while keeping love and laughter at the forefront.

Career Moves: Navigating Life Together

Lester Holt and Carol Hagen's love story is deeply intertwined with their careers. From the moment they met, Carol embraced Lester's passion for journalism, standing by him as he navigated various job opportunities, relocating multiple times across the country. Their shared commitment to supporting each other’s careers reflects the strength of their partnership.

When they first started dating, Carol was a flight attendant, and Lester was an ambitious radio reporter. Their unforgettable first date involved covering a forest fire; Carol showed her dedication by joining Lester on the breaking story. This early glimpse into his career helped shape their strong bond, establishing a foundation of mutual understanding and support.

As their careers progressed, Carol chose to raise their two children, Stefan and Cameron, alongside Lester’s demanding job. Despite constant relocations, they made family a priority. Carol believes that laughter fuels their marriage, noting that their ability to share joy even in challenging times deepens their connection.

While supporting Lester, Carol has also carved out her own successful career as a real estate agent. Her determination to excel in a field known for its competitiveness showcases her independence. Carol’s achievements highlight the importance of navigating both personal and professional lives hand in hand, proving that they can thrive together while pursuing individual passions.

Family Life: Raising Two Successful Sons

Lester Holt and Carol Hagen are not just partners in life; they’re also a dynamic duo in parenting. Together, they raised two accomplished sons, Stefan and Cameron, nurtured in a home filled with love, laughter, and an intrinsic understanding of hard work.

From an early age, both boys were encouraged to pursue their passions. With Lester’s demanding career in journalism, Carol ensured that their home life remained stable and supportive, allowing their sons to thrive in academics and beyond. Their strong family foundation helped cultivate the boys’ ambitions.

Stefan and Cameron followed in their father's footsteps, both excelling in their educational journeys. Stefan graduated from Pepperdine University and now anchors NBC 5 Chicago’s nightly news, while Cameron earned degrees from Stanford, currently working at Morgan Stanley. Their successes reflect the values of perseverance and resilience instilled by their parents.

The Holt family's close-knit bonds are evident in their shared traditions. Whether it's taking family vacations or enjoying simple moments at home, Lester and Carol have fostered an environment where communication and joy flourish. Their approach to parenting emphasizes the importance of family, love, and a few good laughs along the way, ensuring their sons are well-prepared for any journey.

The Power of Laughter: Secrets to Their Enduring Marriage

Laughter plays a pivotal role in the enduring marriage of Lester Holt and Carol Hagen. As the updated NBC Nightly News anchor prepares to bid farewell to his role in May 2025, his reflection on their bond reveals the charm of humor in their relationship. Lester described their shared laughter as their strongest connection, stating, “We laugh a lot, we really do.”

From the beginning, Carol stood by Lester, demonstrating unwavering support during his hectic career. Their first date included a forest fire coverage, showcasing how humor and spontaneity have always defined their dynamic. Carol embraced these interruptions with enthusiasm, calling it a “hot date”—a testament to her light-hearted approach to life with Lester.

Carol admires Lester not for his fame as a news anchor but for the man behind the camera. She appreciates the journey they’ve shared while moving for his career. Her love blossomed in the days of radio reporting, revealing that their relationship thrives on genuine connection rather than celebrity.

As they navigated life’s ups and downs, laughter remained central. Whether it was during family dinners or hospital stays with their son Cameron, the couple found solace in humor. This shared joy cultivated a nurturing environment for their two sons, reinforcing their belief that laughter truly is the best medicine in any relationship.