Now that “Good Morning America” host Robin Roberts has revealed to the world that she’s gay, what impact might that have on the number one rated morning show?
If people focus on Roberts’ performance and not her sexuality, none.
Before she addressed her sexuality publicly for the first time in a Christmas Facebook posting, there were rumors that Roberts was getting married to her longtime partner, massage therapist Amber Laign.
But with homophobia still an issue for some of us, will people start tuning out, or will GMA continue to be the No. 1 morning show? I can’t really imagine people tuning out because of this, but it is a possibility.
Roberts just signed a new $14 million a year deal with ABC, a deal that reflects her importance to the show and the part she’s played in helping the network wrest the number one spot from NBC’s “Today Show”. Roberts has been a member of the ABC family since her days at ESPN.
ABC News released a statement supporting their morning show anchor.
“We love Robin and Amber, who we have all known for a long time. We were so touched by Robin’s Facebook message today and so thankful for all the loving support she has in her life.”
Roberts also received a congratulatory “tweet” from First Lady Michelle Obama.
The holiday Facebook posting was Roberts’ way of reflecting on her life and her ongoing recovery from a risky bone marrow transplant last year.
According to Variety, Roberts said, “…. I am grateful to God, my doctors and nurses for my restored good health. I am grateful for my sister, Sally-Ann, for being my donor and giving me the gift of life. I am grateful for my entire family, my long time girlfriend, Amber, and friends as we prepare to celebrate a glorious new year together…”
The news shouldn’t have been a surprise to anyone. It’s long been whispered about Roberts’ sexual orientation; not that it matters, though this is the first time she has addressed it publicly.
Whether she will or not address it on GMA, or leave just as a Facebook posting and move on, is up to her.
But considering the recent brouhaha over the homophobic comments of Duck Dynasty star Phil Robertson it remains to see how public opinion will flow when it comes to Roberts and GMA.
ABC doesn’t seem to have any concerns. Maybe we shouldn’t either.
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