ABC News is reportedly buzzing over Instagram photos posted by “Good Morning America 3” co-host DeMarco Morgan, featuring him in tight bike shorts. These images have stirred debate among network staffers, with some insiders pointing to last year’s layoffs as a key factor in the unfolding situation. These layoffs, it’s claimed, eliminated executive roles responsible for monitoring the social media activity of on-air talent.
The New York Post reported that ABC News executives have expressed concern about the photos of Morgan in form-fitting bike shorts. The images have drawn a wave of reactions online, including emojis like fire, hearts, and eggplants. The network is now reportedly grappling with how to address the matter with the anchor.
One source within ABC News stated, “Disney is a family-friendly business. His Instagram has ABC News all over it. A journalist should report the news, not be the news. I don’t know how they could expect audiences to take him seriously.”
Sources blamed the kerfuffle surounding DeMarco Morgan
Sources suggest that the controversy surrounding DeMarco Morgan’s racy photos stems from a leadership gap within the network’s talent department. An insider revealed to The Post that ABC News president Kim Godwin, prior to her resignation, contributed to this situation in March 2023 by laying off high-ranking talent executives. These executives traditionally oversaw staffers’ social media conduct and addressed related issues. Crucially, these positions were not replaced.
The photos of Morgan, who is reportedly nicknamed “DeYummy” by colleagues due to his physique, are considered a distraction by some within the network. One source described a specific photo as explicitly showing the anchor’s “whole package.”
Neither ABC News nor DeMarco Morgan have publicly commented on the situation.
Morgan’s slideshow, which included the above photo, received over 9,500 likes on his Instagram.
Insiders point to Kim Godwin, who recently stepped down amidst criticism for several missteps, as being central to the current issue. These missteps include her handling of the T.J. Holmes and Amy Robach scandal and the dismissal of weatherman Rob Marciano.
The layoffs in March 2023 saw the departure of Galen Gordon, senior vice president of talent strategy and development, and Mary Noonan, vice president of talent strategy and development, as part of broader network cuts. These executives played a vital role in monitoring on-air staff’s social media in accordance with network guidelines and served as key contacts for talent, managing agent relations, coordinating appearances, and providing performance feedback.
Godwin’s decision not to replace these roles reportedly surprised Debra OConnell, her superior. Instead, the talent division was placed under executive vice president Derek Medina, described by sources as more of a “yes-man” than a strong leader.
Execs at ABC News are upset over Morgan’s “revealing” photos, a source said.
One source questioned, “How do you lay off the leaders of a division and then have no plan to take care of them [the talent]?” emphasizing that the talent is the “bread and butter” of news organizations. This insider also mentioned that Medina is nicknamed “turtle” within ABC News due to his non-confrontational and seemingly absent leadership style when critical decisions are needed.
With Godwin’s departure, and a farewell event planned, Debra OConnell is reportedly working to rectify what is perceived as the “mess” left behind. This includes addressing ineffective hires and personnel choices made under the previous leadership.
Despite the internal concerns, DeMarco Morgan’s public popularity appears to be increasing. His Instagram account has seen a surge of positive attention, with many fans praising his physique. One particular slideshow featuring Morgan in a bike helmet, cycling jersey, and bike shorts has garnered over 9,500 likes.
Morgan (left) and Eva Pilgrim (center) were named co-hosts of “GMA3.” They are seen here with TV personality Mike Muse.
Fans have left comments like, “Sir, we can see your… NVM, great pics!” and “Son! U just showing thangs!” Another comment simply stated, “A complete package.”
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