ABC News is rumored to be considering a merger of its Good Morning America (GMA) and GMA3: What You Need to Know teams, a move that could result in significant layoffs. 

The discussions come as the network seeks to navigate shifting media consumption trends and declining cable viewership.

Internal Uncertainty at ABC News

Reports of the potential consolidation surfaced late Monday, following claims from insiders 

that longtime anchor George Stephanopoulos is increasingly dissatisfied with his position at the network. 

Sources close to the situation revealed that morale within ABC News is low, with employees growing anxious over possible cuts.

Adding to the speculation, network chief Almin Karamehmedovic addressed staff at ABC News’ Manhattan headquarters on Monday, 

marking the five-year anniversary of ABC News Live, the network’s streaming platform. During the meeting, Karamehmedovic reportedly mentioned that Disney executive Debra OConnell was in Southern California presenting her long-term vision for the network to Disney executives.

Ratings Woes and Industry-Wide Layoffs

The report, confirmed by the Status newsletter, indicates that ABC News is grappling with declining ratings, a challenge that has already led to layoffs at other major news networks. CNN recently cut nearly 200 jobs as it pivots towards a digital-first model, while prominent journalists such as Oliver Darcy and Jim Acosta have left for independent ventures. NBC News has also experienced downsizing, including the departure of Chuck Todd, who transitioned to podcasting after leaving Meet the Press.

ABC News itself has not been immune to restructuring. In October, 75 employees were laid off as part of Disney’s broader corporate realignment. Now, the proposed merger of GMA and GMA3 is viewed as another strategic shift aimed at streamlining operations while adapting to the evolving media landscape.

The Push for Streaming and Internal Resistance

According to sources, ABC executives have explored the idea of streaming GMA—one of its highest-rated programs—on Disney+ and Hulu. However, this proposal has met resistance from ABC’s local affiliate stations, which depend heavily on the morning show for ad revenue and viewership. As traditional cable declines and streaming platforms become more dominant, networks must carefully balance their digital aspirations with the financial interests of local broadcasters.

While no specific names have been mentioned regarding potential layoffs, staffers remain concerned about their job security. Despite Karamehmedovic’s attempt to reassure employees that OConnell was “fighting the good fight” for ABC News, the lack of clarity has only fueled uncertainty within the newsroom.

The Broader Impact of Media Industry Shifts

The turbulence at ABC News mirrors broader changes in the industry. CNN has been undergoing a major transformation under CEO Mark Thompson, who recently announced a shift towards digital content, including the launch of a streaming service and an increased focus on short-form video, similar to formats seen on Instagram and TikTok.

At NBCUniversal, similar restructuring efforts are underway. Mark Lazarus, the CEO overseeing MSNBC, has reportedly considered incorporating more Republican voices into programming and shifting daytime slots to opinion-based content. Meanwhile, Rashida Jones, MSNBC’s president, announced her departure, further signaling a period of transition for the network.

High-profile talent has also seen financial adjustments as networks restructure. Reports indicate that MSNBC slashed Rachel Maddow’s annual salary by $5 million despite her recent contract extension. Similarly, longtime opinion hosts such as Joy Reid and Stephanie Ruhle could face pay reductions.

Stephanopoulos’ Future at ABC News

As ABC News navigates these strategic shifts, George Stephanopoulos’ future at the network remains uncertain. The veteran journalist, who also hosts This Week, has reportedly been struggling since ABC paid former President Donald Trump a $16 million settlement following a defamation lawsuit. The lawsuit stemmed from Stephanopoulos’ on-air remark incorrectly stating that Trump had been found “liable for rape” rather than the correct legal finding of liability for sexual abuse in journalist E. Jean Carroll’s lawsuit.

According to insiders, the lawsuit’s resolution has left Stephanopoulos feeling “humiliated” and “apoplectic.” Additionally, reports suggest tensions behind the scenes between Stephanopoulos and fellow ABC anchor David Muir, further complicating his position at the network. Some sources indicate that Jonathan Karl, one of Stephanopoulos’ co-hosts, may be positioning himself for a larger role in ABC’s political coverage.

A Network at a Crossroads

The media industry is in a state of flux, and ABC News finds itself at a pivotal moment. Whether the rumored merger of GMA and GMA3 moves forward remains to be seen, but the ongoing uncertainty underscores the network’s efforts to adapt to the rapidly changing television landscape. As streaming continues to challenge traditional cable formats, major networks like ABC are facing tough decisions that will shape their futures in an increasingly digital world.

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