Whos Leaving ABC News 2024? Exit Planned
ABC News has experienced a lot of turnover in recent years and the network is about to have another big shakeup. Who’s leaving ABC News? We have the answer below.
The network was first established in 1943 for radio. It has since expanded to include television, streaming, podcasts and more. Since 2013, ABC News has dominated the television ratings and holds the title of the most-watched broadcast news network. Several of its programs, including Good Morning America and World News Tonight with David Muir, have continually outpaced their competitors and are the No. 1 programs in their respective categories.
“ABC News’ commitment to delivering the news that our audiences are seeking is stronger than ever,” ABC News president Kim Godwin told TheWrap in January 2024. “Our teams are reporting on the biggest news events of the day and also the important, often-hidden stories behind the headlines. Their dedication is evident in the stellar reporting and programming ABC News produces every day on every platform.”
Despite the success in ratings, it has been a turbulent time for the network; several longtime anchors have been ousted and there was a major restructuring this past February. Keep reading to learn more about the network’s latest departure.
Who’s leaving ABC News?
Who’s leaving ABC News? ABC News president Kim Godwin announced her departure from the network in an internal memo sent to colleagues on May 5. Godwin first came on as president in 2021, becoming the first black woman to lead a major American network’s broadcast news division.
“I have decided to retire from broadcast journalism,” Godwin told staffers. “I have been fortunate and blessed enough to have done almost every job there is in this business … But after considerable reflection, I’m certain it’s the right one for me as I look to the future and prioritize what’s most important for me and my family.”
Her abrupt exit comes not long after the network reorganized in February and appointed veteran journalist Debra OConnell to a newly created position that oversees the news network. Just a few days before Godwin’s swift exit, CNN reported that OConnell conducted a review of Godwin’s performance and had voiced dissatisfaction with her leadership in a private conversation. According to the outlet, OConnell “pointed to a slew of problems that have materialized on Godwin’s watch, faulting the embattled ABC News chief for her hands-off leadership style, which she believes has allowed problems to fester.”
Morale at ABC News has allegedly suffered since Godwin came on board, with anonymous employees expressing their frustrations with her leadership to CNN. “She has to take swift moves,” one staffer said of OConnell, adding: “People there are restless. They are extremely frustrated.”
Godwin’s three year-run has also included several public challenges and scandals. In 2022, former GMA3 hosts Amy Robach and T.J. Holmes were suspended and eventually fired folling an internal investigation into their workplace romance. In late April 2024, GMA meteorologist Rob Marciano was ousted after multiple staffers allegedly made complaints about his behavior and “anger management issues.”
Following the restructuring, Godwin reported to OConnell, along with Chad Matthews, president of ABC Owned Television Stations. It is not yet known who will replace her.
For more on ABC, check out this gallery on the Good Morning America anchors’ real-life partners.
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