ABC News has let go of veteran correspondent Terry Moran for breaching network policies with an opinionated social media post. Surprisingly, he’s not the first journalist to face scrutiny over controversial comments.
Moran’s remarks, which sparked backlash, were aimed at President Trump and former aide Stephen Miller. Others have faced serious consequences for statements ranging from insensitive comments about women to disturbing comments related to the Holocaust.
Here are a few notable cases from recent times.
Terry Moran’s Dismissal Over Social Media Post
Moran, a long-time ABC News correspondent, took aim at Trump and Miller in a post on social media. After 28 years with the network, he was dismissed just before his contract was set to expire. His suspension began after network executives were alarmed by his personal views shared online about his prior interviews with Trump and Miller.
Moran’s post stated, “Stephen Miller doesn’t mean he’s the brain behind Trumpism. He translates the impulses of the movement into policies, but that’s not what’s interesting about him. It’s bile.” He described Miller as a “world-class hater,” suggesting that his hatred was a source of sustenance for him.
Moran also referred to Trump in derogatory terms, implying that the hatred they both exhibit is rooted in a quest for self-glory. An ABC News insider commented that while Moran was popular within the network, there was perceived pressure to part ways with him.
Ben Collins’ Temporary Ban from Covering Elon Musk
Ben Collins, a former NBC News reporter, faced a temporary ban after openly criticizing Elon Musk and his management of Twitter. His left-leaning views on NBC’s coverage of “Disinformation, Extremism and the Internet” often drew attention.
During his time at NBC, Collins didn’t shy away from showcasing his political stance. He previously expressed skepticism about Musk’s decisions regarding Twitter, and even questioned Musk about whether he considered that not everyone might agree with his viewpoints. Collins later transitioned to overseeing the publication Onion, reflecting on his interactions with Musk and how they shaped his career trajectory.
Don Lemon’s Exit from CNN
Don Lemon was dismissed from CNN in 2023 after ongoing controversies regarding his statements. He stirred controversy just two months before his departure by suggesting that Nikki Haley had passed her prime at 51, referencing his female co-anchor as support for his claim. This comment was met with outrage from numerous quarters.
Lemon attempted to apologize the next day, but the damage was done. In trying to downplay his remarks, he had already angered not just viewers but also his colleagues. His comments received widespread criticism and drew negative responses even from the White House briefing room.
This wasn’t the first time Lemon faced backlash; in 2014 and 2022, he made remarks that were deemed offensive to women. His outspokenness often led to conflict, including his comparisons of Trump supporters to members of the Ku Klux Klan.
Whoopi Goldberg’s Suspension Due to Controversial Remarks
Whoopi Goldberg was suspended in 2022 for her comments regarding the Holocaust on “The View.” She sparked outrage when she implied that the Holocaust wasn’t about race, stating that it was about being human and inhuman. Her view drew immediate backlash from co-hosts and the public alike.
Goldberg attempted to clarify her comments on “The Late Show,” saying that she feels misunderstood and did not intend to offend. Despite this, ABC News placed her on a two-week suspension to allow for reflection on the impact of her remarks.
Other panel members, like Joy Behar, have also faced criticism for their comments, further highlighting the network’s sensitive environment regarding media commentary.
Martin Bashir’s Controversial Departure from MSNBC
Journalist Martin Bashir left MSNBC in 2013 after a scandal involving a highly inappropriate comment about Sarah Palin. Although he initially took a leave of absence, he ultimately resigned. Bashir expressed his regret for his comments and wished his colleagues the best in focusing on important issues without his presence.
