ABC Star Fired For "Anger Issues" Hired by Major Competitor

Rob Marciano, a senior meteorologist with ABC News, had been a familiar face to viewers for over ten years. He was known for providing critical weather updates during severe weather events. His tenure included significant roles on programs such as Good Morning America and World News Tonight.

However, the calm demeanor Marciano projected on-air stood in stark contrast to incidents that led to his unexpected termination from the network in late April. Multiple sources reported that Marciano’s firing stemmed from persistent complaints regarding “anger management issues.”

A reporter from ABC News, under the leadership of Kim Godwin, stands in the rain, wearing a blue raincoat and a cap, with a flooded street visible in the background. — Credit: Screenshot, ‘Good Morning America’, ABC

These concerns escalated to such an extent that they reportedly overwhelmed the management’s ability to address them effectively. Insiders noted that his behavior created discomfort among colleagues and staff at the network, which prompted the decision to terminate his employment. The reactions among Marciano’s colleagues and fans ranged from surprise to understanding, as many in the industry were aware of underlying tensions involving his conduct.

The definitive incident leading to Marciano’s firing was a well-publicized “screaming match” with a producer from Good Morning America. This outburst was deemed a breaking point for ABC executives. According to reports, meteorologist Ginger Zee, who had previously reported discomfort with Marciano’s aggressive demeanor, took matters into her own hands by informing higher-ups of the incident.

Ginger Zee on ABC's 'Good Morning America' — Credit: Screenshot, ‘Good Morning America’, ABC

Following his dismissal from ABC News, Rob Marciano swiftly secured a new position with CBS News. CBS is in the midst of expanding its weather coverage, presenting an opportunity for Marciano to revamp his career. His previous experience hosting weather segments for Good Morning America and World News Tonight is expected to be an asset in his new role.

Wendy Fisher, a former ABC News executive who maintained a positive relationship with Marciano, now leads CBS’s weather operation. Their established rapport may facilitate a smoother transition into CBS News, although specifics regarding his on-air start date remain unconfirmed. The network aims to capitalize on Marciano’s expertise as it enhances its meteorological resources.

A male reporter dressed in a blue rain jacket reporting live during a severe storm, with heavy rain and strong winds visible in the background. — Credit: Screenshot, ‘Good Morning America’, ABC

The leadership shake-up at ABC News extends beyond Marciano’s firing; it also includes the resignation of Kim Godwin, the network’s president. Godwin’s exit comes amid reports that she faced increasing scrutiny over her management style and competence. Her tenure witnessed significant upheaval, and the dismissal of Marciano was a critical chapter in a series of troubling events at the network.

In the wake of these incidents, Disney appointed Debra OConnell to oversee ABC News. Insiders described OConnell as taken aback by the disarray she inherited, further complicating the network’s operational stability. The internal changes at ABC News potentially signal a shift in culture and accountability, as new leadership works to address longstanding issues exacerbated by recent controversies surrounding high-profile figures like Rob Marciano.

Are you happy to hear that Rob Marciano will soon be back on television and reporting on the weather? Will you be tuning into CBS News to watch? Let us know in the comments!