Deborah Roberts, a seasoned investigative journalist with a storied career spanning nearly three decades at ABC News, has now been officially named the permanent co-anchor of “20/20.”
Her remarkable journey in the field commenced in 1995 and has culminated in this prestigious appointment.
Roberts joins an esteemed lineup of past “20/20” anchors, including luminaries such as Diane Sawyer, Connie Chung, and Hugh Downs, who have graced the popular news series over its illustrious 26-year history.
Reflecting on Roberts’ new role, ABC News President Kim Godwin praised her, stating, “Deborah is a skilled investigative journalist, often crisscrossing the nation to conduct hard-hitting interviews, delivering viewers timely and insightful information. She is an empathetic reporter who infuses humanity into every story.”
Her co-anchor, David Muir, expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “Deborah brings her love of storytelling, her unwavering commitment to the truth, and, above all, her humanity to everything she does. I cannot wait to share the anchor desk with her on ’20/20.'”
For the 63-year-old journalist, this promotion is a full-circle moment, as she has played a pivotal role in shaping the Emmy-winning culture of “20/20” through her dynamic reporting skills. Roberts remarked, “Once you have firmly established yourself within a program like this, as I have over the years, you start looking for ways to contribute even more.”
Roberts was originally recruited by her mentor and news icon Barbara Walters in 1995, joining ABC as a reporter. Throughout her career, she has lent her talents to several of the network’s news programs, including “Good Morning America” and “The View.”
In recognition of her outstanding contributions, Roberts was awarded a Peabody Award in 2021 for her work on the “20/20” special titled “Say Her Name: Breonna Taylor.”
Kim Godwin effusively praised Roberts, stating, “Deborah Roberts is one of a kind—a first-class journalist who brings heart, authority, and integrity to every story she covers. Together with David Muir, she embodies the essence of ’20/20,’ inspiring the team and viewers worldwide with every thoughtful word, compelling report, and impactful interview.”
Roberts views her new role as co-anchor as an opportunity to have “a little more ownership” of the program and to contribute more significantly to its editorial direction.
This announcement comes as Roberts replaces former “20/20” co-anchor Amy Robach, who departed ABC following a widely publicized affair with her “GMA3” co-host, TJ Holmes.
Amy Robach will continue her reporting duties across other ABC shows. It’s worth noting that Deborah Roberts, a native of Georgia, has been married to the beloved “Today Show” host Al Roker since 1995.
SOURCE: blackenterprise.com