new york
CNN
–
TJ Holmes and Amy Robach, the third-hour anchors of ABC’s flagship morning show “Good Morning America,” will be leaving ABC News, network president Kim Godwin announced to staff Friday evening.
“I know this has been a distraction for many of us, but let’s not forget all the great work ABC News continues to do to make it the #1 news network in America,” Godwin said in the memo. by CNN. “I would like to thank you again for your patience and professionalism at this time.”
ABC’s “GMA3” and “20/20” — which Robach anchors — will come later, Godwin said.
“After several productive discussions with Amy Robach and TJ Holmes about various options, we all agreed that it would be best for everyone if they move on from ABC News,” an ABC News spokesperson said in a statement Friday evening. “We recognize their talent and commitment over the years and are grateful for their contributions.”
The network is negotiating with the “GMA3” anchors this week about his exit, and the talks have entered the final stage, according to a person familiar with the matter. A finalized deal could come as soon as Friday afternoon.
“There is a lot of frustration on all sides that it could have been handled better,” the person said.
The all-but-certain exit comes after Holmes and Robach were taken off the air last month after a Daily Mail report suggested the pair were in a romantic relationship.
In a memo to network staff at the time, ABC News President Kim Godwin announced that the anchors would remain off the air pending the results of an internal review.
Godwin called the issue an “internal and external distraction” and asked employees to “not gossip” about it while on the job.
Although the couple stayed off the air on “GMA3”, rotating hosts filled in for Robach and Holmes on the program.
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