Embattled ABC News President Kim Godwin announced she was calling it quits Sunday night as she faced heightened scrutiny from corporate superiors over her job performance — and months after she was stripped of much of her power, sources confirmed to The Post.
“I have decided to retire from broadcast journalism,” Godwin said in a staff memo obtained by The Post.
“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,” she wrote.
“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.”
Godwin started her career in journalism four decades ago and reached her professional pinnacle when she was selected to run ABC News a little more than three years ago, becoming the first black woman to lead a national broadcast news operation.
But her tenure was tumultuous and she appeared to lose most of her sway when she was effectively demoted in February after Disney, which owns ABC News, underwent a restructuring, insiders previously told The Post.
She insisted at the time she was still in charge following the reshuffling, sources said.
Godwin’s departure comes as Disney corporate overlords have been conducting a thorough review of her leadership, CNN reported last week.
Debra OConnell, who was promoted to a leadership position that puts ABC News under her purview, was said to be shocked by Godwin’s mismanagement of the money-making division that includes “Good Morning America” and “World News Tonight, the outlet reported.
In her memo to staff Sunday, Godwin lauded ABC News’ top spot in the ratings among broadcast news and other accomplishments achieved during her tenure.
“Over the years, hundreds of you have sent emails, texts, and made phone calls that have lifted my heart. In this consequential election year, as we look to the months ahead, the importance of what we do cannot be overstated. Remember, there is joy in journalism,” she stated.
“I leave with my head held high and wish the entire team continued success.”
The Wall Street Journal first reported Godwin’s retirement.
For now, OConnell will run the show, she told staff Sunday, according to a CNN report.
“Since assuming this role in February, my goal has been — and will continue to be — to provide this team with the means necessary to build on our success and carry on the proud tradition of ABC News into a future full of opportunity and innovation,” OConnell reportedly said to staff.
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