Kim Godwin is out after three tumultuous years ABC News Chairman, a move was made earlier this year when network parent company The Walt Disney Company hired one of its executives, Debra O’Connell, to oversee the news division.
Godwin, the first Black woman to lead a network news division, said Sunday she is retiring from the business. O’Connell said she would remain in charge “for now” as the future is likely.
Godwin inherited a news division where its two most important programs, “World News Tonight” and “Good Morning America” led rivals. cbs And nbc In rating. They’re still ahead, though “Good Morning America” has seen some dips amid anchors TJ Holmes and Amy Robach’s upsets and Cecilia Vega’s jump. CBS News,
Godwin was recruited as an outsider from CBS News and was upset by complaints about his management style that made it into print.
In a note to staff members, Godwin said she understood and appreciated the significance of being the first Black woman to hold such a major broadcast news role.
“It is both a privilege and a debt to those who worked hard before me to lead a team whose brand is synonymous with trust, integrity and a determination to be the best in the business,” he wrote.
After working at ABC, CBS, NBC and 10 local news stations in nine cities, Godwin said she was leaving the business.
“I’m leaving with my head held high and wish the entire team continued success,” she wrote.
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David Bodmer writes about media for the Associated Press. Follow him at http://twitter.com/dbauder.