NBC News anchor Joseph Olmo announced Sunday on-air that he is stepping down from his role and changing professions after nearly a decade in broadcast journalism. Olmo, who has been with NBC4 Washington covering the DC area since 2023, revealed his decision at the end of his broadcast.
"For the better part of a decade, which includes three thrilling years right here at NBC 4, I have had one remarkable job," Olmo stated. "You can cover the world, but nothing compares to being a local news reporter. Because think about it. Who else would tell you about all the things happening where we live?"
He described his time as a local news reporter and anchor at the station, which has been broadcasting for nearly 80 years, as "remarkable" and "so cool," working with a "legendary" team. Olmo expressed a personal philosophy of pursuing multiple aspirations, stating, "In life, you are often encouraged to dream big. But what happens when you have several dreams? I firmly believe our time here is way too short to get to the end and wonder – what if I had tried that?"
"So after almost 10 years in broadcasting, tomorrow night I will hit the streets of the DMV [DC, Maryland and Virginia area] one final time as a local news reporter," he announced.
While Olmo did not disclose his new professional direction, he hinted that it would not be surprising to those who know him. He previously worked at DC News Now for three years before joining NBC4 Washington, and also gained experience as a freelance journalist earlier in his career. His LinkedIn profile does not yet list a new position.
Following his on-air announcement, Olmo's Instagram post sharing the news was met with numerous congratulatory messages from viewers and colleagues. One user commented, "You have been such a good addition to the NBC4 team, Joseph! You will be missed." Another viewer expressed, "Oh, no. Please don’t go, Joseph! You’re one of the coolest journalists on tv now."
Neal Augenstein, a reporter at WTOP, a Washington, DC-based news station, acknowledged Olmo's contributions, writing, "Job well done, Joseph. It’s always been a pleasure to see you at scenes. Your journalism and reporting has always been top notch and has earned my respect, and the respect of your audience." Marcel Gooden, a TV producer, also extended well wishes, saying, "Congratulations on the next chapter Joe, what pleasure to have been working with you."
Olmo concluded his farewell by emphasizing the collaborative nature of news production: "Whenever you watch us on TV or online, remember one means many. You may see one person on at a time, but there are hundreds of people who get us here." He thanked his NBC 4 family and the viewers for their support throughout his tenure.