Matt Frucci Takes Helm of NBC Nightly News as Executive Producer

Matt Frucci Takes Reins of NBC Nightly News as Executive Producer In a move that signals a new era for the iconic news program, Matt Frucci has been named executive producer of NBC Nightly News. The change typically comes when a signature news program hands duties to a new anchor, and it marks a significant shift in leadership for the long-running broadcast. Frucci, who had been executive producer of Top Story, a show anchored by Tom Llamas that streams on the NBC News Now service, will continue his duties there. According to Janelle Rodriguez, executive vice president of programming for NBC News, Frucci's dual roles demonstrate the network's commitment to innovation and adaptability. "We're excited to have Matt at the helm of NBC Nightly News," said Rodriguez. "His experience and expertise will undoubtedly bring a fresh perspective to our flagship program." The move comes as NBCUniversal prepares to spin off Versant, the parent company of MSNBC and CNBC, by the end of 2025. Meghan Rafferty, who previously held the executive producer position at NBC Nightly News, has left the role to take on a new challenge as vice president of news standards at Versant. Frucci's appointment is seen as a strategic move to revitalize the program and appeal to a younger audience. "Matt brings a unique blend of experience and creativity to the table," said Rodriguez. "He understands the importance of storytelling and will undoubtedly bring a new level of energy to NBC Nightly News." The change in leadership has sparked interest among industry insiders, who see it as an opportunity for the program to reinvigorate its brand and attract new viewers. "NBC Nightly News has always been a benchmark for excellence in journalism," said Brian Steinberg, senior TV editor at Variety. "With Matt Frucci at the helm, I'm excited to see how he will shape the program's direction and continue its legacy." As NBC Nightly News embarks on this new chapter, fans of the program can expect a fresh perspective and innovative storytelling. With Frucci at the reins, the future looks bright for this iconic news program. In related news, Versant is set to spin off from NBCUniversal by the end of 2025, marking a significant shift in the media landscape. The move has sparked speculation about the future of MSNBC and CNBC, with many wondering how the separation will impact the networks' programming and direction. As the industry continues to evolve, one thing is clear: Matt Frucci's appointment as executive producer of NBC Nightly News marks a new era for this beloved news program. *Reporting by Variety.*