Kim Godwin Embattled ABC News Chief Exits

ABC News President Kim Godwin stepped down Sunday night, months after a corporate restructuring that effectively stripped away much of her management autonomy. 

“I have decided to retire from broadcast journalism,” Godwin said in the email sent to staff Sunday night. “Anyone who’s passionate about what we do knows there’s no other business like it, so this was not an easy or quick decision. 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.”

The Wall Street Journal reported Sundy night that no successor has been named for Godwin, who was named president of the division in 2021. 

Godwin’s retirement comes after a restructuring in February that gave her a new boss in Debra OConnell, who serves as president of parent Disney’s news group. OConnell is a company veteran who is familiar with ABC News, having scrutinized operations across Disney’s networks as part of a corporate review.

 Here are some key points which contributed to Godwin decision to resign:

Debra O'Connell

Leadership Style and Restlessness: People within ABC News were restless and extremely frustrated due to Godwin’s perceived hands-off leadership style. OConnell, who reports directly to Mouse House co-chair Dana Walden, is dissatisfied with this approach.

Talent Retention and Ratings: OConnell was upset by Godwin’s inability to fill key roles left vacant by departures. For instance, former head of talent Galen Gordon’s position remains unfilled even a year after his departure. Additionally, Godwin’s failure to retain key editorial stars had been a concern. Under Godwin’s watch, ABC’s flagship morning news show “Good Morning America”saw its dominant ratings position erode somewhat as “CBS Mornings” has closed the gap.

Review and Potential Impact: OConnell’s top-to-bottom review of the news division spelled doom for Godwin.

Elevation and Resentment: OConnell’s promotion above Godwin reportedly did not sit well with Godwin. She resented the fact that she did not report directly to Disney CEO Bob Iger’s inner circle. 

OConnell told employees in a memo that “for the time being,” she will oversee the network. Thanking staffers for their “patience and understanding through this period of transition,” OConnell said she is “looking forward to working with the leadership team as we forge a new path forward together.