ABC Defends David Muir, Addresses George Stephanopoulos Feud Rumors

NEW YORK, NY — ABC News has rebutted persistent rumors of a feud between anchors David Muir and George Stephanopoulos, stating that such speculation is ‘a tired narrative.’ The comments came after Muir, 51, was named one of Time‘s ‘Most Influential People of 2025’ in a list published Wednesday.

The network’s spokesperson expressed pride in Muir’s achievements, insisting that the team at ABC News supports him fully. ‘Everyone at ABC News is proud of David’s recognition,’ the representative added, in response to the growing rumors that have circulated online.

Muir’s accolade was highlighted by Diane Sawyer, the former ABC anchor who praised him in a heartfelt tribute. Sawyer, 79, described Muir as ‘the irreverent friend I want to hang out with when the camera shuts down,’ emphasizing his calm demeanor and ability to manage high-pressure assignments.

‘He’s the anchor chosen for interviews by Popes and Presidents. He shows up calm, respectful, and fearless,’ Sawyer wrote in the tribute. Muir took over her anchor chair in 2014, a notable transition that has been at the center of speculation regarding tensions between him and Stephanopoulos, who is currently 64.

During an episode of ‘Good Morning America,’ Stephanopoulos acknowledged Muir’s recognition by exclaiming, ‘David Muir! Our own David Muir!’ while his co-host Robin Roberts celebrated Muir’s achievement. Stephanopoulos concluded with a nod to all nominees, stating, ‘Congratulations to David and all the nominees.’

The rumors of a potential rift between the two have been intensified since Sawyer’s departure, as some reports point to underlying competition for prominence within the network. However, an ABC representative previously stated that both anchors maintain a ‘friendly and mutually respectful relationship.’

Further stirring the pot of this narrative, speculations were reignited in January when reports surfaced suggesting Stephanopoulos and his co-host on ‘This Week,’ Jonathan Karl, were also in a struggle for airtime. A source indicated that Karl was eager to assert himself in the show’s dynamic.

‘The bench has been ready to go for years,’ the source claimed, alluding to changing dynamics within ABC News. Despite these claims, ABC continues to assert their anchors work collaboratively.

The build-up of rumors reflects a broader shift in the landscape of network news, where Muir’s popularity has surged, now anchoring the most-watched program on television. Sawyer highlighted that Muir has built a strong viewer base, with over 8 million Americans tuning in nightly. This figure surpasses competitors, as critics note the ongoing changes in anchor positions at rival networks.

Despite the ongoing speculation, industry insiders suggest any potential animosity has eased, with sources indicating that Stephanopoulos maintains a significant role within ABC News. He continues to anchor ‘This Week’ and has been noted for his involvement with production projects in collaboration with Hulu.

The ongoing narrative reflects not just individual personalities but the shifting dynamics of television news as a whole, with Muir standing at the forefront as a prominent figure in primetime journalism.