Brian Williams Taking Leave of Absence for Knee Surgery

Brian Williams himself is making headlines.

The 54-year-old anchor announced during Thursday's broadcast of NBC Nightly News that he will be taking a temporary leave of absence, beginning next week, in order to have knee surgery.

"If you don't see me around here for a while, this is the reason why," Williams said while introducing a segment about the procedure.

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The NBC Nightly News blog states that Williams initially injured his right knee after it was hit by a helmet while playing football in high school.

"It reversed my knee -- they don't recommend that," he said in the post. "I've been in pain for 35 years. I loved playing a team sport. I loved every minute of football. I've paid a high price for what's been confirmed to be the single worst New Jersey High School Catholic League football career in history."

Lester Holt is expected to anchor NBC Nightly News during Williams' absence. No word yet on exactly how long he will be away.