James Goldston To EXIT ABC News

James Goldston

ABC News president James Goldston is stepping down after 17 years with the network. Of those 17 years, he spent seven as president. reports The Wrap.

In a memo to staff sent Thursday, he said his last day with the company will be March 31.

Goldston cited the 2020 election as a turning point in his career, writing, “It’s a really tough decision. I’ve loved every day of my 17 years at ABC News, but in recent times I’ve always assumed that after this extraordinary election cycle, which we’ve covered at a full sprint for four years, it would be time for a change. After a great deal of reflection over the last few months, I’m ready for a new adventure.”

In the memo, he praised ABC News for continuing to win awards, launch new platforms and shows and see success in the ratings. He added, “This is one of the great jobs in all of journalism. My only regret is not being able to see our newsrooms filled again with people and energy and endeavor before I go, but I will find ways to say thank you to as many of you as I possibly can in the coming weeks.”

Goldston did not share what his future plans are, but mentioned he is “excited” for his “next chapter.”

The low-profile Goldston leaves at a time ABC’s flagship newscasts, “World News Tonight” and “Good Morning America,” are both leading its rivals in the ratings.

His departure adds to the list of top jobs that need to be filled at major news organizations, including The Washington Post and Los Angeles Times.

During his tenure, the network purchased the FiveThirtyEight blog, took over “The View” from ABC’s entertainment division and launched a more aggressive online offering, ABC News Live.

Goldston’s decision to install David Muir as “World News Tonight” anchor paid dividends as the show now dominates the evening news ratings, often reaching 10 million viewers a night.

Earlier this week, Washington Post Executive Editor Martin Baron announced his retirement. Searches for new leadership are also underway at the Los Angeles Times, Reuters, HuffPost, Vox, Wired and the Center for Public Integrity.

Some of ABC’s rival networks are also in the midst of reorganization or are preparing for the possibility of major changes. NBC restructured its news and entertainment divisions last year, when it also announced the departure of Andy Lack as chairman for NBC News and MSNBC. Rashida Jones will take over as MSNBC’s new president next week, following the departure of 12-year president Phil Griffin.

Meanwhile rumors have long swirled about management turnover at CBS News, as well as the looming retirement of New York Times Executive Editor Dean Baquet.