ABC News’ long-awaited move to Hudson Square in downtown Manhattan — or “no man’s land,” as some staffers are calling it — is causing consternation among the ranks.
“It’s all a chaotic mess. People are still in the dark about the move,” a source told Page Six.
Insiders are doubtful that “Good Morning America” will make the move downtown. ABCSome insiders believe that crown jewel “Good Morning America” will remain shooting in Times Square “indefinitely” — despite the company’s insistence the show will also head downtown.
One source claims ABC has even extended its “GMA” lease at Times Square Studios, and “is definitely staying.”
Another source told us they can’t see ABC abandoning its prime Times Square real estate when third-place “CBS Mornings” is gaining traction on the network’s top morning show.
Explore More
Apart from “GMA,” others at the network are concerned there won’t be enough office space at the new facility.
“There’s not enough room. They’re creating a space with no offices. It’s a massive problem that’s ongoing. They took an entire floor away from the news division,” a source familiar with the planned move said.
We also hear that parent company Disney didn’t factor in the location when it come to breaking news. “What happens when they get stuck in [Holland Tunnel traffic]? They made this decision without having intense conversations with all the parties involved to see exactly what’s needed,” the source claimed.
Veteran Disney exec Debra OConnell will oversee the news division. Getty ImagesTalk shows like “The View,” “Tamron Hall” and “Live with Kelly and Mark” are expected to make their move over the summer, while on hiatus. They’re all expected to have big fall premieres in the new space, but shows such as “GMA,” “World News Tonight” and New York’s local news, ABC 7, are believed to be transitioning in spring 2025, after the election.
We hear those shows will allegedly shoot in studios inside the new building’s basement, above the noisy subway.
Employees are hopeful they will have more answers now that veteran Disney exec Debra OConnell is taking over for news president, Kim Godwin, to helm a new news division.
ABC News president Kim Godwin steps into a new role. WireImageWhatever the case, the move can’t come fast enough for some employees who are ready to move on from the network’s mice infested headquarters on West 66th Street.
Disney sold the Upper West Side building in 2018 and is renting it back as they await the move.
One source described the building as smelling like an “absolute sewer,” with “barely working toilets.” “Nothing works. It’s disgusting,” they said.
ABC News spokesperson Jeannie Kedas did not get back to us.
