ABC News President Kim Godwin announced Sunday night that she is resigning after facing intense scrutiny from company executives over her performance. And months after she was stripped of many of her powers, her associates confirmed to the Post.
“I have decided to retire from broadcast journalism,” Godwin said in a staff memo obtained by the Post.
“Those who are passionate about our business know that there is no other business like it, so this was not an easy or quick decision,” she wrote.
“However, after much consideration, I believe it is the right choice for me as I look to the future and prioritize what is most important to me and my family.”
Godwin began her career in journalism 40 years ago and reached her professional pinnacle a little more than three years ago when she was selected to run ABC News, becoming the first Black woman to lead a nationally broadcast news operation. Ta.
But her tenure has been rocky, and she appeared to have lost most of her influence when she was effectively demoted in February after Disney, which owns ABC News, underwent a restructuring, an insider said. previously told the Post.
According to sources, she insisted at the time that she would continue to be in charge even after the personnel change.
Godwin’s resignation comes as the Disney company faces an overhaul of her leadership. CNN reported last week.
Debra O’Connell, who was promoted to a leadership position putting ABC News under her control, was shocked by Mr. Godwin’s mismanagement of money-making divisions that included “Good Morning America” and “World News Tonight.” The same media reported that.
In a memo to staff Sunday, Mr. Godwin praised ABC News’s rise to the top ratings spot in broadcast news and other accomplishments during his tenure.
“Over the years, hundreds of you have emailed, texted, and called me to lift my spirits during this critical election year. “As we look ahead to the coming months, the importance of what we do cannot be overstated. We must remember that there is joy in journalism,” she said.
“I leave here with my head held high and I wish the entire team every success.”
First, the Wall Street Journal report Godwin’s retirement.
She told staff on Sunday that O’Connell will be running the show for the time being. CNN reports.
“Since taking on this role in February, my goal has been to provide this team with the tools necessary to build on its success and continue ABC News’ proud tradition into a future filled with opportunity and innovation. Yes, and always will be,” O’Connell reportedly told staff.
