ABC News president Kim Godwin is stepping away from the network that’s news division she led for three years — and from broadcast news in general.
“I have decided to retire from broadcast journalism.” she wrote in a farewell letter to colleagues, according to the Associated Press. “I leave with my head held high and wish the entire team continued success.”
Godwin became the first Black woman to lead a broadcast news outlet in April 2021 when the Walt Disney Co. brought her over from CBS News. She’s also worked for NBC News and at multiples local news stations in nine cities.
Godwin called it a “privilege” to work with ABC News, which she praised for its integrity as a leader in its field. The networks key news programs “World News Tonight” and “Good Morning America” continue to outpace rival networks, though the latter experienced key departures and turmoil under Godwin’s stewardship.
More than two-dozen ABC staffers grumbled to CNN about their boss’ allegedly hands-off approach to running her department.
ABC News veteran Debra O’Connell was asked to oversee the network’s news division in February. She reportedly plans to run things for “for the time being,” but has not been named as Godwin’s successor.
News of Godwin’s departure was greeting with approval by former U.S. President Donald Trump who feels ABC News, and other mainstream news outlets, treat him unfairly.
“Happy to report that Kim Godwin, Head of ABC, has resigned,” the former leader wrote on Truth Social. “Could it be the unfair reporting on EVERYTHING TRUMP? In any event, GOOD RIDDANCE!”
Trump, whose election interference criminal trial resumed in lower Manhattan Monday morning, referred to ABC News’ staffers as “Fake News Thugs” and sarcastically wished Godwin “Best wishes” as she exits the network.
The former president is accused of conspiring with the National Enquirer to keep his alleged affair with a porn star quiet to help him win over conservative voters in the 2016 presidential election.
With News Wire Services
