Janai Norman breaks silence after abrupt ‘GMA Weekend’ exit leaves fans stunned

Viewers of 'Good Morning America Weekend' were left stunned when co-anchor Janai Norman suddenly disappeared from their screens without any on-air goodbye. The broadcast journalist, 36, has since broken her silence on the departure, sharing an emotional and candid video on social media that gave fans a glimpse into how the exit truly affected her.

Why Janai Norman left 'Good Morning America Weekend'

Norman has not offered a direct explanation for her exit, and neither has ABC. According to reports citing Status, her contract expired and was not renewed. In her April 3 farewell video, she hinted at the abruptness of the situation, saying, "Stay tuned" and noting that she "hoped that we'd have more time."

What Janai Norman said about her departure

Norman was candid about the difficulty of leaving the way she did. "It's been hard on me that our time was cut short," she said. "I have loved my job. It has been a joy to connect with my coworkers and with viewers, to help keep you informed and entertained, and to create this community."

She also addressed not getting a proper on-air sendoff. "It really breaks my heart that I don't get to say goodbye," she said, adding that a farewell would have "been fun." However, she found comfort in what comes next. "But I have these three young kids, and I have worked weekends their whole lives, and so now they get more of me. And that is worth everything. I'm sorry. I feel you, and thank you to every single one of you who has reached out with such kind, validating words. I have needed it, and I appreciate it."

How long Janai Norman was on 'Good Morning America Weekend'

Norman has been a co-anchor on the show since 2022, per Deadline and Entertainment Weekly. An alumna of the University of Missouri-Columbia, she initially joined the network in 2011 as an intern. After some time in local news, she returned to ABC and worked on several programmes. She is credited with helping to spearhead the second hour of Saturday's 'GMA' in 2019.

What Janai Norman's colleagues said

Norman received an outpouring of support from colleagues following her departure. 'Good Morning America' anchor Robin Roberts said, "You are a true gem and thoroughly enjoyed working with you. I treasure our friendship."

Co-anchors Gio Benitez and Whit Johnson also expressed their feelings in the comments of her farewell video. "Love you very much," Benitez wrote, while Johnson added, "Truly grateful for the endless memories and moments. Cheering you on through your next adventure."