For nearly 50 years, one popular morning show has helped families start their day with news, entertainment, and familiar faces. But now, a major behind-the-scenes change is in the works—and it’s causing a stir both on and off camera.
This year, Good Morning America celebrates its impressive 50th anniversary. The ABC morning show first aired on November 3, 1975, and quickly became a household staple. Over the decades, audiences have built a deep connection to its rotating cast of anchors—from Charlie Gibson and Diane Sawyer to Robin Roberts and George Stephanopoulos. Even as the lineup has evolved, viewers’ loyalty and trust in the show have remained rock-solid.
Related:Tensions Mount at ‘Good Morning America’ as Stars Reportedly Avoid Speaking to Each Other
But in a surprising announcement made earlier this year, ABC revealed that Good Morning America will soon leave its iconic Times Square studio. After 26 years, the show is packing up and heading two miles downtown to the newly unveiled Robert A. Iger building, named after the current Disney CEO. The state-of-the-art facility will house multiple divisions of ABC News and The Walt Disney Company, including editorial, streaming, and live production operations.
Although this may seem like a standard corporate relocation, reports suggest that tensions are brewing behind the scenes. One factor in particular has raised eyebrows: the proximity of Good Morning America’s new set to the studio of Live! With Kelly and Mark. This development has reignited talk of a lingering feud between two former morning show hosts.
According to a report from Page Six:
“According to a source with knowledge, ‘GMA’s’ new set will be just steps away from Ripa’s. The new studios, both located on the basement level of the new Hudson Square headquarters, share a hallway and elevator — making the chances of an awkward encounter a major risk.
‘They will be feet away from each other — he will be able to smell her perfume,’ an ABC insider told The Post. ‘The staff is on tenterhooks. These two do not speak.’”
The tension stems from Michael Strahan’s controversial departure from Live! in 2016, which reportedly blindsided Kelly Ripa and strained their working relationship.
Related: Is ‘GMA’ Losing Its Stars? Hosts May Be Out by Summer
With both now operating under the same roof, ABC staffers are reportedly preparing for potential awkwardness—and perhaps a few backstage run-ins.
While it’s still unclear how long Strahan will remain at Good Morning America, earlier reports suggest he may exit the show by year’s end to spend more time with family. That timeline has only added to the uncertainty surrounding the upcoming studio transition.
What do you think of Good Morning America’s big move? Do you think the studio shift will reignite old drama? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
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