The new Disney is holding a “two-hour” combined upfront presentation this afternoon at Lincoln Center’s Geffen Hall. Much of the attention has been focused on the sports and entertainment properties, but ABC News still received some time in the spotlight.
GMA co-anchor Robin Roberts and World News Tonight anchor David Muir are the news division’s representatives, and spoke on stage after a Good Morning America sizzle reel was shown.
“No doubt, these are exciting and challenging times,” said Roberts, before adding, “Being open, transparent and connected one-to-one with viewers, it’s just vital.”
Robin Roberts is talking up ABC News. “What we have in the morning is special, and we know it”. pic.twitter.com/3z2x82hxry
— Jason Lynch (@jasonlynch) May 14, 2019
Roberts also spoke about her on-stage partner, telling the audience: “David Muir is the most-watched anchor, and by a lot.” If you read our evening news ratings reports, you know that is indeed the case.
The duo appeared on stage at around 5:30., which is impressive for Muir considering he has a 6:30 p.m. newscast to anchor!
“It’s not our job to weigh in, it’s our job to give them the facts,” he told the audience.
Muir also touted the other show he anchors, 20/20, which expanded to two-hours in January 2019. “We have reimagined Friday nights,” said Muir, “which is why 20/20 is winning again on Friday nights.”
But at the end of the day, when you think of the news these days, you think of 2020 election, which Muir seemed to acknowledge.
“Anyone else want to run?,” he asked the audience of media buyers and advertisers.
Here’s Adweek’s more extensive story on the Disney 2019 upfront.