ABC News has moved quickly to replace Chris Cuomo after Page Six revealed that Cuomo is defecting to CNN.
ABC News President Ben Sherwood announced today that correspondent David Muir will join Elizabeth Vargas as the new co-host of the prime-time newsmagazine program “20/20.” Even though he is joining “20/20,” Muir with continue to anchor “World News” on the weekends, substitute for Diane Sawyer, and report during the week.
“David has a true talent for connecting with our viewers, and his award-winning reporting will now find a new home at ‘20/20,’” said Sherwood in a statement. “I’m delighted he’s bringing his ample storytelling skills to Friday nights in primetime, where Elizabeth and the team are delivering the biggest audience in years.”
Sherwood also commented about Cuomo’s departure from ABC News: “Chris has been a unique voice at the anchor desk and a valued colleague and friend. We’ll miss his energy, commitment and humor and we wish him the very best in this new venture.”
Cuomo will take on “Today” and “Good Morning America” with a revamped new morning show on CNN that he’ll host alongside the network’s Erin Burnett.
We first reported that Zucker was eyeing Cuomo and has been “looking for an anchor he can basically make the centerpiece of the network.”