ABC News President Kim Godwin is resigning following viral reports about tensions within the network.
Godwin announced in an email sent to staff Sunday night that he will step down from the position after being appointed in 2021.
“I have decided to retire from broadcast journalism,” Godwin said in an email obtained by Fox News Digital.
She continued, “If you’re passionate about what we do, you know there’s no other business like it, so this wasn’t an easy or quick decision. But After thinking about it, I decided that it was the right decision for me as I looked to the future.” And prioritize what is most important to me and my family. ”
ABC News President Kim Godwin reportedly faced backlash within ABC News over her leadership style. (Dia Dipaspil/Getty Images)
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Godwin also praised the network for hiring her as the first Black woman to head a national news network.
“When I accepted the role of president of ABC News a little more than three years ago, I understood and appreciated the significance of being the first black woman to lead a nationally broadcast news network. This is an honor. At the same time, I am indebted to those who have worked hard every step of the way.”I have the opportunity to lead a team whose brand is trust, integrity, and a resolute determination to be the best in the industry. I’m going to the ceiling,” she said.
Disney Networks President Debra O’Connell also issued a statement thanking Godwin for his work.
“Dana and I would like to take this opportunity to express our deep gratitude to Kim for her service as president of ABC News. Kim has led this team through a critical time in our world. , and she has done so with respect for the brand and the profession. And more than that, we are grateful to her,” O’Connell wrote.
Kim Godwin was named president of ABC News in May 2021. (ABC)
Mr O’Connell also said he would lead ABC News during this “period of transition”.
Godwin reportedly faced backlash within the network over her leadership style, with disgruntled ABC insiders claiming O’Connell needed to take action.
“She has to act quickly,” says a source close to ABC’s internal operations. told CNN O’Connell’s. “The people there are restless. Very frustrated.”
Several ABC News staffers also reportedly told CNN that Godwin “made some serious mistakes, including creating an inner circle that alienated the staff.”
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Mr Godwin has also privately complained of being micromanaged by Mr O’Connell, Pac News said. In conversations with several current ABC News employees, the outlet said that “representation” and the fact that Ms. Godwin is the first black woman to head the broadcast news division are key factors in the company’s future. It was reported that this became an obvious fundamental issue in the discussion. , and her possible termination.
Mr. O’Connell will temporarily take charge of ABC News following Mr. Godwin’s departure. (ABC)
“Racism in the workplace is so subtle that it can be easily weaponized by any race or bad actor,” ABC News’ Black Veteran told Pac.
“Disney fell into the trap of mild prejudice of low expectations and appointed someone who everyone knew was not qualified for the job… Now [they] “I’m concerned that firing the first black woman, simply because she’s bad at her job, would be an act of racism,” the person continued.
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Fox News’ Hanna Panreck contributed to this article.
