Rumors of Tension Between George Stephanopoulos and Robin Roberts Resurface at Good Morning America
Speculation regarding a strained relationship between Good Morning America co-anchors George Stephanopoulos and Robin Roberts has reignited, fueled by reports of on-set friction.
Reported On-Set Chilliness
According to Breaker Media, Stephanopoulos reportedly opts to engage with his phone, playing chess, rather than interact with Roberts during breaks on the GMA set. The media outlet suggests a “secretive and cold” atmosphere pervades ABC News, the network broadcasting GMA.
Past Feud Allegations and Network Dynamics
Previously, Stephanopoulos faced reports of discord with World News Tonight anchor David Muir. Media journalist Oliver Darcy indicated that Muir seemingly “won” this alleged rivalry, citing high ratings and acclaim for ABC’s flagship newscast.
An ABC spokesperson dismissed the current claims, labeling them as “unfounded, ridiculous gossip designed to get clicks and nothing more.”
Conversely, another source familiar with the situation told DailyMail.com that Stephanopoulos and Roberts enjoy a “great relationship on set and behind the scenes.”
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Fallout from Trump Settlement and Stephanopoulos’s State
This year has reportedly been challenging for Stephanopoulos, described as “miserable” at ABC News following a $16 million settlement paid to Donald Trump over the network’s coverage of the former president.
Reports indicate George Stephanopoulos avoids interaction with Robin Roberts off-air at the Good Morning America studio. They are pictured with fellow anchor Michael Strahan
Stephanopoulos is said to prefer playing chess on his mobile device instead of conversing with his co-anchor
Stephanopoulos inaccurately stated on-air that the president-elect was found “liable for rape” – instead of correctly referencing “sexual abuse” – in relation to writer E. Jean Carroll’s case in March.
Trump subsequently initiated a defamation lawsuit against Stephanopoulos and ABC, accusing the anchor of making statements with “malice” and a disregard for factual accuracy.
The settlement terms included a public apology from Stephanopoulos.
Sources within ABC News informed the New York Post that Stephanopoulos has since become isolated within the network, with some speculating his potential departure by summer.
“George seems miserable,” one source reportedly stated.
“He’s definitely gone. He’s a dead man walking for sure.”
However, alternative perspectives suggest Stephanopoulos might remain at the network in a less prominent role, possibly focusing on film and television projects.
Another source refuted claims of Stephanopoulos’s impending exit.
“This is nonsense,” the unnamed source told the New York Post. “Anyone watching GMA can see he’s engaged, all-in and as committed as ever.”
“He’s happy to be here.”
Veteran ABC News anchor Stephanopoulos is reportedly “miserable” following ABC’s $16 million settlement with President Donald Trump concerning comments made about him
Stephanopoulos erroneously claimed on-air that the president-elect was found “liable for rape” – instead of using the accurate term “sexual abuse” – regarding writer E. Jean Carroll in March
Contract Extension and Potential Role Adjustment
Despite the rumors, Stephanopoulos, a former aide to Bill Clinton, has reportedly signed a multi-year contract extension with Disney, ABC’s parent company.
His current contract reportedly pays him $20 million annually for co-hosting Good Morning America and anchoring This Week, in addition to producing documentaries.
Sources indicate the new contract includes a reduced salary from his previous $20-25 million per year and the possibility of a diminished role in the future.
They also noted that contract renewals do not preclude the network from ultimately removing Stephanopoulos, who has been with ABC since 1997.
“It’s the Disney way,” a former Disney executive of long tenure commented.
“They re-sign your contract, then they move you out.”
Wider Turmoil at ABC News
On Tuesday, ABC News staff were convened for a meeting where Almin Karamehmedovic, the network’s new leader, announced significant changes and evaded questions about further job reductions.
Numerous staff members are reportedly in a state of uncertainty after recent “brutal layoffs” that “gutted” the news division.
ABC News is not alone in facing challenges. MSNBC recently canceled Joy Reid’s program due to declining viewership and reassigned prominent personalities as part of broader cost-cutting measures.
Rachel Maddow, a key MSNBC broadcaster, reportedly accepted a pay reduction, from $30 million to $25 million annually for a reduced schedule of one show per week.