Diane Sawyer to step down from ‘ABC World News’

MANILA, Philippines  – US television journalist Diane Sawyer is stepping down from anchoring the nightly newscast ABC World News this September, but will continue to work with the network on special reports. 

David Muir, anchor of World News Weekend and 20/20 will take over Sawyer’s position starting September 2.

In a report by ABC News, ABC News President James Goldston spoke highly of Sawyer, particularly about her high-profile interviews. 

“Diane’s incredible work on Hidden America and her masterful interviews with Gabby Giffords, Malala Yousafzai and recently Hillary Clinton bring great distinction to the entire news division,” he said.

“Her curiosity, passion and energy inspire us all. Diane is one of the giants of modern journalism, and we can’t wait to see where she’ll lead us next.”

Sawyer, who anchored World News since 2009 will take on the new role of creating special reports for the network and Goldston said will lead  “a team which will create and commission original reporting, big ideas and interviews.”

Goldston also announced that George Stephanopoulos was named as the chief anchor of ABC News. Stephanopoulos currently anchors Good Morning America and This Week.

On her Twitter account, Sawyer congratulated Muir and Stephanopoulos for their new positions.

Congrats to my friends @DavidMuir & @GStephanopoulos – big days and stories ahead for all at @ABC !

— Diane Sawyer (@DianeSawyer) June 25, 2014

Muir said that he was humbled by the new chapter in his journalism career.

This is an incredibly humbling day. Honored to join @DianeSawyer and @GStephanopoulos in this great new adventure. pic.twitter.com/D8jygGMWpT

— David Muir (@DavidMuir) June 25, 2014

In the same ABC News report, Ben Sherwood, co-president of Disney ABC Television group praised the new appointments.

“I want to acknowledge and celebrate Diane in particular for leading our division to great heights, especially and most recently at World News,” he said in an email to the staff of the network.

“I also want to salute George and David, consummate and complementary pros who will – as always – make ABC News shine on the biggest, most important stories around the clock and around the world.” –Rappler.com