DeMarco Morgan’s Shocking Exit from ABC’s GMA3: What Really Happened Behind the Scenes?

In a move that has left morning television fans reeling, DeMarco Morgan, the charismatic co-anchor of ABC’s GMA3: What You Need to Know, has officially parted ways with the network. The announcement, made on July 7, 2025, by ABC News President Almin Karamehmedovic, revealed that Morgan is embarking on a “new journey,” leaving both the show and ABC News entirely. This unexpected departure, alongside co-anchor Eva Pilgrim’s exit to join CBS’s Inside Edition, has sparked a wave of speculation and disappointment among viewers who had grown fond of Morgan’s warm presence on their screens. But what prompted this sudden exit, and why are fans so stunned by the news? Let’s dive into the details of Morgan’s departure, the reasons behind it, and what it means for the future of GMA3.

A Rising Star’s Journey at ABC

DeMarco Morgan joined ABC News in 2022, bringing with him a wealth of experience from his previous roles as a correspondent and anchor at local stations in Miami, Atlanta, Los Angeles, and New York. His smooth delivery, engaging personality, and dedication to journalism quickly made him a standout addition to the network. By 2023, Morgan was tapped to co-anchor GMA3, stepping into a high-profile role alongside Eva Pilgrim and Jennifer Ashton. The trio was tasked with revitalizing the show, which had faced challenges following the controversial departure of previous hosts Amy Robach and T.J. Holmes in early 2023.

Morgan’s tenure on GMA3 was marked by his ability to connect with audiences, whether he was delivering breaking news, conducting heartfelt interviews, or bringing levity to lighter segments. His professionalism and charm earned him a loyal following, with many viewers praising his ability to make complex stories accessible and engaging. However, despite his popularity, GMA3 struggled to maintain consistent ratings, a factor that insiders suggest may have played a role in the recent shakeup.

The Announcement That Shocked Fans

On July 7, 2025, ABC News President Almin Karamehmedovic sent an internal memo to staff, obtained by outlets like The Hollywood Reporter and Variety, announcing that Morgan would be leaving both GMA3 and ABC News. The memo was notably vague, stating only that Morgan “has decided to begin a new journey” without elaborating on his next steps. This cryptic phrasing immediately set off speculation about whether Morgan’s exit was truly his decision or if behind-the-scenes factors were at play.

Adding to the surprise, Eva Pilgrim’s departure was announced simultaneously, with the veteran anchor set to take over as the new host of Inside Edition following Deborah Norville’s exit after three decades. While Pilgrim’s move to a prominent syndicated newsmagazine show was seen as a natural career progression, Morgan’s complete departure from ABC News raised eyebrows. Unlike Pilgrim, who had a clear next step, Morgan’s future remains undisclosed, leaving fans and industry watchers scrambling for answers.

Why Did DeMarco Morgan Leave?

While ABC’s official statement framed Morgan’s exit as a personal choice to pursue new opportunities, several reports suggest that the decision may have been influenced by a combination of factors. One key element appears to be the ongoing challenges faced by GMA3. The show, which launched as a spinoff of Good Morning America in 2018, has undergone multiple reboots over the years. Initially hosted by Michael Strahan and Sara Haines, it was restructured during the COVID-19 pandemic and again in 2023 following the high-profile exit of Robach and Holmes, who left amid public scrutiny over their personal relationship.

Under Morgan and Pilgrim’s leadership, GMA3 struggled to carve out a distinct identity. Some insiders noted that the show felt disconnected from the flagship Good Morning America, lacking the cohesive branding that made the original program a household name. Declining ratings, coupled with behind-the-scenes changes, including a new producer and staff cutbacks in March 2025, reportedly put pressure on the show’s anchors. According to sources cited by NewsBreak, plummeting viewership was a significant concern, with some speculating that ABC was looking to shake things up to boost the show’s appeal.

Another factor that may have contributed to Morgan’s exit was a controversial incident in May 2024, when he posted photos of himself in tight green bike shorts while cycling in Santa Monica. The images, which went viral for their revealing nature, reportedly drew internal scrutiny from ABC executives, who flagged them as inappropriate. While Morgan’s professionalism was never publicly questioned, the incident highlighted the intense scrutiny faced by high-profile anchors and may have strained his relationship with the network.

A Network in Transition

Morgan’s departure comes at a time of significant change for ABC News. The network is reportedly planning to overhaul GMA3 yet again, with plans to integrate it more closely with Good Morning America. This includes rotating in familiar faces from the main show, such as Lara Spencer, Gio Benitez, Will Reeve, Sam Champion, Rachel Scott, and James Longman, to create a seamless connection between the two programs. According to TheWrap, this restructuring is part of ABC’s broader strategy to unify its daytime lineup and leverage the star power of its flagship anchors, including heavyweights like Robin Roberts, George Stephanopoulos, and Michael Strahan.

The decision to revamp GMA3 reflects broader challenges in the daytime television landscape. With audiences increasingly turning to streaming platforms and social media for news and entertainment, traditional afternoon programs are struggling to retain their viewership. The shifting dynamics of the television industry make it increasingly difficult for shows like GMA3 to maintain relevance without constantly evolving.

Fan Reactions and the Emotional Impact

The news of Morgan’s exit hit hard for viewers who had come to appreciate his warmth and professionalism. Many expressed their disappointment, noting that Morgan brought a unique energy to GMA3. His departure, combined with Pilgrim’s exit, has fueled concerns about the show’s future, with some fans questioning whether it can recover from yet another overhaul. The lack of clarity about Morgan’s next steps has only added to the sense of loss, as viewers wonder where they’ll see their favorite anchor next.

For many, Morgan’s exit feels like a missed opportunity for ABC to build on his potential. His ability to connect with audiences and deliver stories with authenticity made him a standout, and his departure has left a void in the GMA3 lineup. Fans have taken to online platforms to share their thoughts, with many expressing hope that Morgan will land a prominent role elsewhere, where his talents can continue to shine.

What’s Next for DeMarco Morgan?

As of now, Morgan’s future plans remain a mystery. Unlike Pilgrim, who has a clear path to Inside Edition, Morgan’s “new journey” has not been detailed in any official statements. His last appearance on GMA3 was on June 13, 2025, and his social media presence has been quiet since late May, offering no clues about his next move. Given his extensive experience and strong on-screen presence, industry observers speculate that Morgan could be eyeing opportunities at another network, a digital platform, or perhaps a pivot to a new area of media, such as producing or hosting a different format.

Morgan’s departure from ABC News marks the end of a significant chapter in his career, but it’s unlikely to be the end of his story. With his track record of excellence and a fanbase that spans the country, he is well-positioned to take on a new challenge that could further elevate his profile. Whether it’s a return to local news, a role at a competing network, or a venture into digital media, Morgan’s next step is sure to be closely watched.

The Future of GMA3

As ABC moves forward with its plans to revamp GMA3, the network faces the challenge of redefining a show that has struggled to find its footing. The decision to rotate Good Morning America anchors may help align the program more closely with its parent show, but it also raises questions about whether GMA3 can regain the momentum it once had. For now, the focus is on leveraging familiar faces to draw viewers, but the success of this strategy remains to be seen.

A Bittersweet Farewell

DeMarco Morgan’s exit from GMA3 and ABC News is a pivotal moment for both the anchor and the network. While the reasons for his departure may include a mix of ratings pressures, internal dynamics, and personal ambition, the impact on fans is undeniable. Morgan’s departure leaves a gap in the GMA3 lineup, but it also opens the door for new opportunities for a journalist whose talent and charisma have left a lasting mark. As viewers await news of his next chapter, one thing is certain: DeMarco Morgan’s journey is far from over, and his fans will be eagerly watching to see where it takes him next.