Kim Godwin, ABC News President, Announces Retirement
The President of ABC News, Kim Godwin, has chosen to end her professional journey in broadcast journalism. After steering the network’s news division for three years, Godwin will be stepping down from her role at ABC News.
In her farewell letter to her colleagues, she expressed her intent to retire, saying, “I have decided to retire from broadcast journalism.” She passed on her best wishes to the team’s continued success, leaving the network on a positive note.
Trailblazer in Broadcast Journalism
Godwin holds a special place in the history of American television news. In April 2021, she became the first Black woman to steer a broadcast news outlet when Walt Disney Co. recruited her from CBS News. Previously, she had worked for NBC News and served at multiple local news stations across nine cities.
Praising ABC News for its integrity and leadership in the sector, Godwin termed her time with the network a “privilege”. Despite experiencing some turbulence and key departures under her leadership, ABC’s main news programs, including “World News Tonight” and “Good Morning America”, remained ahead of their competitors.
Leadership Style Under Scrutiny
Godwin’s management style, however, was not without controversy. Over two-dozen ABC staffers reportedly expressed dissatisfaction to CNN about Godwin’s allegedly hands-off approach to managing her department.
When Godwin took leave in February, ABC News veteran, Debra O’Connell, was assigned to supervise the network’s news division. She is expected to manage operations “for the time being,” though she has not officially been appointed as Godwin’s successor.
Donald Trump Supports Godwin’s Departure
News of Godwin’s departure was welcomed by former U.S. President Donald Trump, a notorious critic of ABC News and other mainstream media outlets. Trump has repeatedly accused them of reporting biasedly on his presidency.
In his comment on Truth Social, Trump stated, “Happy to report that Kim Godwin, Head of ABC, has resigned. Could it be the unfair reporting on EVERYTHING TRUMP? In any event, GOOD RIDDANCE!” He also made sarcastic remarks, wishing Godwin “Best wishes” on her exit from the network.
Trump is currently embroiled in a criminal trial for alleged election interference, accused of conspiring with the National Enquirer to suppress news about an alleged affair to secure the support of conservative voters during the 2016 presidential election.
Her departure from ABC News will close the chapter on a significant career in broadcast journalism. Godwin will truly be remembered for her trailblazing work, despite the inconsistencies and challenges that surfaced during her tenure.