Good Morning America Marks 50th Anniversary with Robin Roberts, George Stephanopoulos, and Michael Strahan
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Good Morning America, a beloved ABC morning news program, celebrated a momentous occasion on Monday, November 3, as it marked its 50th anniversary since the inaugural broadcast. The show was launched with actors David Hartman and Nancy Dussault at the forefront to rival NBC’s thriving Today show in the ratings. By the late ’80s, with Joan Lunden and Charles Gibson as co-anchors, GMA had made significant strides in the ratings. The addition of Diane Sawyer in 1999, bringing a hard-news approach, further helped the show gain nearly 1 million more viewers.
The current dynamic trio of Robin Roberts, George Stephanopoulos, and Michael Strahan sat down for an exclusive interview with PEOPLE to reflect on their time at Good Morning America. Robin Roberts, who transitioned from a newsreader to co-anchor in 2005, expressed her initial nerves about joining veteran journalists like Sawyer and Gibson. However, she fondly remembers their warm welcome and acknowledges them as the “Mount Rushmore of TV journalists.”
Michael Strahan, the former NFL player who joined GMA in 2016 after leaving Live! With Kelly and Michael, emphasises the strong bond shared between the anchors, stating, “We’re family.” George Stephanopoulos, who became a co-anchor alongside Roberts in 2009, echoed Strahan’s sentiment, expressing gratitude for having such exceptional teammates. The trio’s camaraderie and mutual respect shine through in their on-screen chemistry.
Reflecting on his journey to the GMA anchor desk, Stephanopoulos revealed that he initially turned down the opportunity due to hesitations about transitioning from his role as a political advisor. He credits the persuasive pitch from the ABC News president as one of the best professional decisions he’s made. Similarly, Strahan confessed his initial reluctance about taking on a news anchor role but acknowledges that stepping out of his comfort zone was a rewarding experience.
One of the key factors contributing to the success of Good Morning America over the years has been the consistent presence of Roberts, Stephanopoulos, and Strahan at the anchor desk. Roberts emphasises the fun they have together and the privilege they feel in being able to greet viewers each morning. Stephanopoulos echoes this sentiment, highlighting the honour of delivering news that helps viewers navigate their day. Strahan appreciates the positive atmosphere and the opportunity to engage with a diverse audience.
The close-knit relationship between the GMA anchors goes beyond the studio, as they consider each other more than just colleagues but a “work family.” Stephanopoulos emphasises their strong bond, noting how they’ve come to understand each other’s moods and preferences. This level of trust and camaraderie has contributed to the enduring success of the morning show and the rapport shared by the anchors.
As Good Morning America continues to captivate audiences with its engaging content and heartwarming segments, the trio of Robin Roberts, George Stephanopoulos, and Michael Strahan remains a constant source of comfort and information for viewers. Their dedication to delivering news with authenticity and warmth has solidified their place in morning television. With their shared history and genuine camaraderie, the GMA anchors look forward to many more years of waking up America with a smile.