Brian Williams has been facing a huge amount of scrutiny since the factual inaccuracies of his 2003 helicopter ride in Iraq, which Williams had stated involved the helicopter catching on fire. Williams has since apologized for his statement, but with criticism growing-particularly after Williams’ account of seeing a floating body in the French Quarter during Hurricane Katrina has also caught critique-and NBC launching an internal investigation into Williams’ Iraq story, Williams has decided to take a temporary leave of absence.

According to Williams’ note that went to his staff, Lester Holt will take over Williams’ spot until Williams returns, whenever that will be. “In the midst of a career spent covering ad consuming news, it has become painfully apparent to me that I am presently too much a part of the news, due to my actions,” he wrote in the memo, as stated by The Hollywood Reporter. “Upon my return, I will continue my career-long effort to be worthy of the trust of those who place their trust in us.”

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NBC News’ Brian Williams broadcasts live from Vancouver, British Columbia during the 2010 Winter Olympics — Photo by: Subrata De/NBC