ABC News staffers have noticed the absence of President Kim Godwin during their daily editorial meeting, leading to speculation about her future at the network. Debra OConnell, a Disney-appointed executive, is conducting a review of Godwin’s portfolio and has been viewed by many as a problem solver willing to address issues directly. In contrast, Godwin is perceived as an absentee boss focused on her self-image, leading to complaints from staff members about her leadership style and decisions she has made since taking over in 2021.
CNN has spoken with over 20 people inside and close to ABC News who have candidly shared their complaints about Godwin’s leadership, including her hands-off approach, lack of strategic vision, and appointment of an inner-circle that has alienated staff members. OConnell, on the other hand, has been praised for her willingness to address problems directly and is seen as the de facto leader of the network, with many stating that Godwin has lost the confidence of the newsroom. Disney CEO Bob Iger is known for paying special attention to ABC News, and OConnell would not have been appointed if there were not concerns about the direction of the network.
Godwin, the first Black woman to lead a broadcast television news division, was brought in to help heal the culture at ABC News but has instead exacerbated its problems and dampened the competitive spirit within the newsroom. OConnell is now tasked with leading the network out of this challenging period and restoring its previous energy. She is reportedly working on a plan to repair the organization, seeking advice from industry figures about potential candidates for leadership roles at the network. While some speculate that changes may be on the horizon as OConnell’s 90-day milestone approaches, it remains uncertain when or if those changes will take place.
The sense of frustration and anxiety within ABC News is palpable, with many hoping for a changing of the guard to address the issues that have plagued the network under Godwin’s leadership. OConnell’s willingness to address problems directly and seek advice from industry experts suggests that she is serious about making changes to improve the organization’s culture and effectiveness. Staff members are eager to see a shift in leadership that will bring back the competitive spirit and energy that once defined ABC News, and are hopeful that OConnell will be able to steer the network in a positive direction.
As OConnell continues to evaluate and address the challenges facing ABC News, the fate of Godwin remains uncertain. Staff members are eager to see improvements within the organization, but the exact timeline for potential changes is unknown. OConnell’s leadership and willingness to take on difficult issues head-on suggest that she is committed to making ABC News a stronger and more effective news outlet, but only time will tell if her efforts will lead to the desired transformation. Staff members are hopeful that a new era of leadership will bring about positive change for the network and restore its competitive edge within the industry.
