ABC News president Kim Godwin is stepping down after three years. She is the first Black woman to be assigned to a chief role in the news division of the ABC television network.
Godwin suddenly announced on Sunday, May 5, that she was leaving the ABC News network. According to CNN Business, her resignation also ends her tumultuous leadership run that has been mired in controversies.
Frustrating Leadership at the News Center
It was reported that Godwin’s abrupt departure happened after CNN reported last week that Debra OConnell, who was appointed president of the newsgroup and networks at Disney, conducted a review of Godwin’s performance and expressed dissatisfaction with her work at the network via private conversations with the state of affairs.
Staff members were not fond of her either when she was a leader at ABC News. They stated that the president’s polarizing leadership caused the employees’ morale to plummet. The report also mentioned that morale at ABC News had declined significantly since Godwin took over in 2021.
More than two dozen employees told CNN they are frustrated with the president’s leadership. They also pointed out many errors in the newsroom being led by Godwin. As a result, even their successful news shows like Good Morning America experienced a decline in ratings and viewership.
Furthermore, Associated Press News reported that Godwin took over the news division that houses two of ABC News’ most important programs, World News Tonight and Good Morning America. Unfortunately, their ratings have gone down, allowing rivals at CBS and NBC to get the best ratings.
Reason for Godwin’s Sudden Exit
Meanwhile, even with the unpleasant reviews and complaints while she was president of ABC News, Godwin said the reason for her departure was retirement. She sent a memo to ABC newsroom employees to tell them she was resigning and wished them well.
I have decided to retire from broadcast journalism. I have been fortunate and blessed enough to have done almost every job there is in this business, Godwin said in the note. But after considerable reflection, I’m certain it’s the right one for me as I look to the future and prioritize what’s most important for me and my family. I leave with my head held high and wish the entire team continued success.
