Charlie Gibson Signs Off From ‘World News’
EmailAfter nearly 35 years at ABC News, Charlie Gibson signed off from “World News” this evening. He joined ABC News in 1975 and has served as the anchor of "World News" since May 2006.
His closing note from the end of tonight’s broadcast is below:
As has been mentioned a time or six over the past week — this is my last broadcast in this chair. And it's hard to walk away from what I honestly think is the best job in the world — but my parents taught me you should understay — not overstay your welcome. And there is so much to do. In the years I have left, I don't want to miss any of it.
It has been a privilege and an honor to be here working with reporters, producers and staff for whom I have unbounded respect. This is for them — as it has been for me — as it was for Frank Reynolds, as it was for Peter Jennings — a labor of love.
I thank you for investing trust in us each evening — trust that we will give you as objective and honest a look at the day's news as we possibly can. Objectivity is not universally in favor in our business these days. But it is critically important. It is what we strive for each night. It is my hope — that is what you have looked for — and that is what you have found when you have come to ABC's "World News."
You'll find it with my pal Diane Sawyer who assumes this chair on Monday.
I leave with great gratitude for you who watch us each evening and for ABC News which has been such a wonderful place to work for the past third of a century.
I think we have something the producers have put together coming up. But before that I would simply say — that is World News for this Friday. I'm Charles Gibson and I hope you've had a good day. I've had so many good days here. For all of us at ABC News — have a great weekend and a joyous holiday season.
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Charlie,
I will miss you!! I got teary eyed at your final moments on World News Tonight! I tried to get home every evening for the last 15 minutes of your newscast every night! Sometimes I even left work early to see what you were broadcasting some nights. May God bless you in your “retirement”. Enjoy it! I am sure your family is ready to have you home at night!
A dedicated viewer in AL!
Posted by: CP | December 18, 2009, 7:15 pm 7:15 pm
Have a wonderful retirement, Charlie. Bless you and your family for the years y’all have given to America. You are a hero in my heart! Keep safe, and enjoy!
Posted by: Patti Snover | December 18, 2009, 7:21 pm 7:21 pm
Mr. Charlie Gibson, thank you for all you have done with reporting. I will miss seeing you on ABC evening news. You gave us your “all” and we apreciate that. May you have a great retirement and enjoy time with your family. God bless and have a Merry Christmas.
Posted by: Dana | December 18, 2009, 7:28 pm 7:28 pm
Charlie, I know after 34 years, Mrs. Charlie must have a Looong Honey-do list, and we owe her..
When you leave,go with the love and best wishes of your loyal audience.
You brought compassion, enlightenment, and understanding and honesty to your newscast every night When the news was grim and scarey, you delivered it in a way that explained the gravity of the situation, but there was also a sense of reassurance that it was not more than we could handle. You never left us with a feeling of panic, somehow you found a way for us to find, or at least look for a solution, a mission, some purpose that might ease it.
You truly defined fair and balanced. You were never afraid to show your heart. My evening will never quite be the same without your’ I hope you had a good day…
I missya already Charlie, Godspeed.
Posted by: judy | December 18, 2009, 7:31 pm 7:31 pm
Enjoy your time with your family Charlie! Thank you because I raised my family with you and learned a lot from your news reporting. Thanks for being honest, sincere and caring about the American people. Happy Holiday’s to you and your family and God Bless!
Posted by: TBryant | December 18, 2009, 7:34 pm 7:34 pm
Charlie:
I wish I could hug you and say, “thank you”. Every evening, it felt like you were giving each of us a hug with your words. You are strong, smart, sentimental, sweet, sincere and full of such grace!! Thank you for giving us so many “good days”! You deserve that and much more!
Posted by: Denise | December 18, 2009, 7:40 pm 7:40 pm
Be Blessed Charile! I have watched you since my sophomore year at ETHS in Evanston, IL. Thank you for you dedication to giving us the news, you will be missed immensely! It will be different not hearing or seeing you on my television. You have been a constant in my life for over 20 years. Enjoy your retirement Charlie…all the best to you and your family!
Posted by: D. Woolridge | December 18, 2009, 7:51 pm 7:51 pm
To Charlie,
What can I say that hasn’t already been said. You were the BEST!!! You seem so real and down to earth—my family
felt comfortable with you presenting the news. We felt you were always trying to be objective, which is so important, especially now. May you live a long and healthy life and enjoy your beloved wife and girls and their families. Yes, there still is a lot to finish before you are called home with our Blessed Father. So, enjoy each and everyday you deserve it—you have accomplished a wonderful mission as a newscaster and now the future is waiting for you to enjoy. Take care
Posted by: Lorna Norman | December 18, 2009, 7:53 pm 7:53 pm
Charlie,
It has all been said, but you really were the only one to watch when it came to the news. You could be counted on to give an objective and honest assessment of the situation. I will miss you. Enjoy your time with your family. I hope you have had a good day – you always made mine better. Thank you.
Posted by: J Kohler | December 18, 2009, 7:59 pm 7:59 pm
Charlie, I have grown up and raised my girls with you… your smile, shrug, funny, humble pure enjoyment, wonder and awe of our world and your place in ‘informing me about it’. I imagine you really ARE what I have come to know and rely on; thank you for being you, genuine and altogether REAL. Best to you and your precious ones!
Posted by: P Dear | December 18, 2009, 7:59 pm 7:59 pm
You had some very big shoes to fill when you sat in that chair and as I remember you were not real sure that you could or wanted to, but we were not suprised when you fit right in and Im sure that Peter and Frank both would say good job Charlie,as I will too. You will be truely missed and we have all enjoyed you so very much. Happy retirement
Posted by: Ken | December 18, 2009, 8:01 pm 8:01 pm
Goodbye Charlie Gibson; Hello Brian Willians
Posted by: EMc | December 18, 2009, 8:01 pm 8:01 pm
Charlie,
You are like an Uncle that I didn’t have a pleasure knowing you but I do know you because you are so pure of thought word and deed and that is so important in this world.
MAY GOD BLESS YOU CHARLIE AND YOUR ENTIRE FAMILY NOW AND FOR ALL TIME AS I AM SURE HE WILL!!!
Posted by: Carol | December 18, 2009, 8:02 pm 8:02 pm
I watched WORLD NEWS since I came to the US. I always enjoyed the news with you.You will remain to be my favorite. God bless the rest of your life.
Posted by: Mehary | December 18, 2009, 8:02 pm 8:02 pm
From a long time viewer – Thanks, Charlie. You’re the best.
Posted by: Mike | December 18, 2009, 8:04 pm 8:04 pm
Aww Charlie I live in the UK and I stay up until 1.30am each morning so I can watch you on BBCNews24! How I will miss you … THANK YOU for the many wonderful years of service you have given us, it was a pleasure to hear your voice each night.
Once again thank you for being you and I hope that you have a wonderful 2010!
Posted by: A James | December 18, 2009, 8:06 pm 8:06 pm
I can’t help but wonder how long this will last this time? Both Charlie and Diane have “left” GMA before, and then got called back when the GMA ratings went south. In fact, I’ve gotten more than a bit tired of watching the rest of the GMA team hand out alarm clocks to Charlie and Diane to smash, only to have them back on the show a couple of months later.
Charlie finally managed to leave GMA for good, only when Peter Jennings died, and ABC was scrambling to find a replacement.
So I’m guessing that, within a few months, Diane will be back on GMA (instead of George, who anybody knows was all wrong for the show from the get-go), and Charlie will be back anchoring the news.
Posted by: JaylahPriest | December 18, 2009, 8:09 pm 8:09 pm
Charlie: I have followed you for years and we are sorry to see you leave. I am happy that Actress Dian is moving from the GMA show because I can now go back to watching GMA.
Posted by: Art Loomis | December 18, 2009, 8:10 pm 8:10 pm
Charlie…wishing you the best on your retirement. You are the ‘best’ newsman and a good man. You will be missed; but I wish you and your Family only the best in your future…;o)
Posted by: Paul | December 18, 2009, 8:11 pm 8:11 pm
Dear Charlie,
Until I started watching you I was unable to watch the news, but you brought kindness and objectivity to every newscast. I always watched to the very end of your show to hear you tell us you hoped we’d had a good day. I hope you have a good day for all the rest of your days, Charlie. You will be missed.
Posted by: Janet | December 18, 2009, 8:16 pm 8:16 pm
Thank You Charlie for all you have given, it breaks my heart to see you leave, ABC news will not be the same.I wish you didn’t have to leave, you made the night news worth watching. Best of all to you and your family.
Posted by: Cheryl | December 18, 2009, 8:16 pm 8:16 pm
Charlie,
I wish you the very best in whatever comes next in your journey. While I’m sad to see you go, I’m happy for you starting a new chapter in your life. And I think ABC made a very good choice in Diane Sawyer to sit in your chair. She will continue your level of professionalism and integrity. Good Luck to you sir!
Posted by: Shawn | December 18, 2009, 8:16 pm 8:16 pm
Charlie: I am gonna mist you, you made the night news worth watching, I am sorry I have to change to another channel, we all enjoy you reading the news, you were a part of our family every evening, and now you leaving, it’s hard
Posted by: Cheryl | December 18, 2009, 8:20 pm 8:20 pm
Charlie Gibson’s special blend as an anchor — authority and trustworthiness mixed with genuine warmth and geniality — has made ABC’s World News an absolute must-watch for me every day it’s been broadcast here in Tokyo for the last several years. I’ve been hooked — even though I’m a Brit working in Japan — and I’m sad to see him go. A lot of big hitters have wished him well in the future. Now this little hitter wants to add his voice from thousands of miles away. Well done, Charlie — you did a truly great job! You’re going to be hugely missed…
Posted by: Tony Newell | December 18, 2009, 8:30 pm 8:30 pm
Dear Charlie,
Thank you for all the years of giving us the best news of all the channels. I will truly miss you but I know that Diane Sawyer will also do a fantastic job as you did.
God Bless you and your family.
Minerva Almanza
Posted by: Minerva Almanza | December 18, 2009, 8:38 pm 8:38 pm
Charlie -
Job well done! Classy exit, you are truly a special personality. I know this is unorthodox, but next time your in Chicago, please please stop on in and see where you have been sitting in our kitchen and have the food we’ve always offered you but you could never eat.
Posted by: mark c | December 18, 2009, 8:39 pm 8:39 pm
I wasn’t surprised when the All Barack Channel (ABC) gave Obama the final farewell message to Charlie Gibson. I almost choked when Charlie Gibson talked about the need for “objectivity” in news reporting. He is a little late with that message.
Posted by: Robert | December 18, 2009, 8:40 pm 8:40 pm
Dr Charlie…
We miss u a lot….We watch ur broadcast everyday without any miss…It was very hard to believe that it is the time now for your to depart from the WORLD news and ABC…
Usually my wife wont get emotional…but today she was very emotional and she says…I miss CHarlie… You da mann….
Long Live Dear CHarlie…GOD BLESS U…
Posted by: Gunda | December 18, 2009, 8:41 pm 8:41 pm
Charlie:
I am going to miss your “hope you had a good day.” I have been a long-time fan and you will be sorely missed. Enjoy your retirement and your family. Thank you for always putting a smile on my face – not always an easy thing to do when delivering the news.
I hope you have a good life!
Posted by: Cathy | December 18, 2009, 8:47 pm 8:47 pm
Every good thing eventually comes to an end. That is the nature of life—a series of transition. Whatever position we find ourselves, we must give our very best and leave an lasting legacy. Thank you, Charley Gibson
Posted by: what667 | December 18, 2009, 8:48 pm 8:48 pm
I’m gonna really miss you Charlie, you have a special smile & to me the only replacement for Peter Jennings. I’ll watch Diane. If not Brian Williams…but NEVER Katie Couric.
You’re the best. Your humor & the ability to laugh at yourself will be missed.
Posted by: Renee | December 18, 2009, 8:49 pm 8:49 pm
Charlie:
I got ready for work every morning watching you on Good Morning America. When you moved to the evening news I auto tuned you every workday evening. You are a regular part of my life and I will miss you. Jimmy Kimmel said it best “Even when you had to deliver bad news you made us feel safe hearing it”. I shed a tear tonight on your last night of broadcasting and so did my 20 year old daughter. It will be hard to fill this void. However, I do wish you only happiness in your retirement.
Posted by: Sharon | December 18, 2009, 8:51 pm 8:51 pm
Charlie, thank you for being OUR anchor. You have been the best in the evening since Cronkite and rank with him on integrity and sincerity. We missed you when you left GMA but joined you on World News. Now we will just miss you. We thank you for informing us on the news and entertaining and inspiring us. You are a class act and the news business is losing someone very special. We wish you a very long and happy life and thank your family for sharing you with America.
Posted by: David Greene | December 18, 2009, 8:53 pm 8:53 pm
Thank you and so long. You will be so misssed.
Posted by: Sandie | December 18, 2009, 8:57 pm 8:57 pm
Charles Gibson represented the best in broadcast news. In a world of cosmetic journalism and journalists, Gibson was genuine. His get the facts right and do it in a fair and precise way made his broadcast interesting and believable.
With Gibson, it was not about the hair, the suit, the waving hands, and the screaming voice. It was all about the story.
Gibson represents what we need in broadcast journalism, thoughtful, objective, untwittered news.
My wife and I will miss Charles Gibson and his steady, balanced, approach to the news.
Posted by: Tony Mussari | December 18, 2009, 9:01 pm 9:01 pm
Was that tears I saw in your eyes while signing off? Well, you are not alone! My evening was never complete without watching the American news, here up in Canada. Of course, I channel-jumped among the three networks, but caught a large portion of your newscasts. I am so glad I taped your sign-off. We join those very famous people who bid you adieu and hope you will return to the air waves from time to time, as does Tom Brokaw.
My question is how come you did not replace Peter Jenings till 2006 if you were this popular with so many people?
Posted by: Harry | December 18, 2009, 9:06 pm 9:06 pm
I’ve watched you forever it seems. You are the one newsman I felt I could believe. I watched you all the years on GMA and you could just tell when they gave you some piece of crap on which to report and also when a story affected you deeply. You are human; that is a good thing and I will miss you no end.
Posted by: Jim | December 18, 2009, 9:07 pm 9:07 pm
Charlie, Hope you enjoy life after your retirement. I was 19 years old when i first watched you on the news,you will be missed.god bless.
Posted by: Doris | December 18, 2009, 9:08 pm 9:08 pm
Mr. Gibson, you and Peter Jennings inspired me to pursue journalism. I will never forget the purity of your work and I hope that the new generation of journalists now making its way into the field follows the objectivity viewers deserve.
I am a 26 year old who anchors the 10pm news in a small market in Wisconsin. I am the only person in my newsroom at 8:07 in the evening. In my few years in “the business” it’s hard not to notice a hard shift in the industry. I only hope that in 20 years, there are still icons of your stature that people rely on every evening.
I hope you enjoy retirement as much as you’ve enjoyed your years at ABC.
Posted by: Chris | December 18, 2009, 9:10 pm 9:10 pm
My tears can not express the feeling of sadness as well as happiness I have for you and your family in your retirement. Happy because I know you will make the very most of everything that you will do with the rest of your life. And so terribly sad at the loss I feel knowing I won’t see your objective, and smiling face on the world news anymore. The world will simply miss you Charlie! … And I will miss you. I’m not anybody special but I know that I express the sentiment of many. Take care Charlie, we love you!!
Posted by: Ann C | December 18, 2009, 9:11 pm 9:11 pm
Dear Charlie,
I am hearbroken that you are leaving but I am happy that you will be having all the wonderful adventures you deserve. Your “I hope you had a good day” meant a lot to me, as cheesy as it may sound. I looked forward to that simple yet touching moment every evening, whether I had a good day or not. It made me smile every time. You are kind, gentle and a true professional. I wish you and Arlene the very best. Congratulations, Charlie!
Posted by: Lindsay Kramer | December 18, 2009, 9:11 pm 9:11 pm
Let me say I was in tears thinking Charlie please don’t go. I know I’m being selfish but I am such a Charlie Gibson fan…In fact I said he’s not old enough to retire…Charlie enjoy ur family and ur grandkids we will miss u please from time to time give all ur fans the pleasure of making appearances or give us follows up letting us know how u are enjoying life to the full…take care
Posted by: teresa | December 18, 2009, 9:13 pm 9:13 pm
I will miss you Charlie Gibson terribly. I rarely think of any television personality as a real person. You, however, have become the exception by sharing glimpses of your life, not being glib, exhibiting common sense, intelligence and being down to earth. Such uncommon characteristics not found today. I wish you well. I wish you happiness. I wish you contentment.
Posted by: Gia Zimmelli | December 18, 2009, 9:14 pm 9:14 pm
What a set of pipes you have there, Charlie! Take care of them, you hear? I hope…no, I firmly believe, that I will hear those pipes again right here on my TV set! We’ll patiently stay tuned!
Posted by: Stewart Holman | December 18, 2009, 9:15 pm 9:15 pm
Charlie:
Thanks for all the years of reporting the news in a fresh, honest way. You’ll be sadly missed. I hope you have a good day, every day in you retirement, you earned it. Thank’s for all you’ve done.
Posted by: Paul | December 18, 2009, 9:23 pm 9:23 pm
Charlie, Charlie , Charlie o.k fine.. leave.. be happy.
Leave knowing you left at the top of your game and with no regrets. Leave knowing you were the epitome of what’s right in the world and on air of what at times seems questionable journalism.
Leave and be with.. your partner who all women knew deep down you love with all your heart.. sigh… be with your daughters and Grandchildren whom we saw time after time the pride you have of them and for them…
Be with and among us the people you reported about the…the fans who watch every night and most mornings … be happy Charlie.. and if by chance I see you walking down the street on a USA street … be tolerant if i want to say Hi because I among most .. think you as a old friend.
Be happy Charlie.. be oh so happy.
Julie Runco
Cottage Grove, OR
Posted by: Julie Runco | December 18, 2009, 9:28 pm 9:28 pm
I’m surprised that anyone still watches network newscasts anymore. In other words, who cares?
Posted by: Pittsburgh Patriot | December 18, 2009, 9:33 pm 9:33 pm
Charlie, you are one helluva newscaster and we’re really gonna miss you. You’re like family every night at 6:30 here: can set our watches by your broadcast. You’ve always given us a relaxed, confident, yet honest take on what’s happening in the world. Many thanks for these years with you. Enjoy whatever makes you happy in your retirement. I’m sure we’ll see you on air again with at least a special or two, perhaps. Namaste and Happy Holidays to you and your family. Doug in soon-to-be blizzard bound central PA.
Posted by: Doug | December 18, 2009, 9:42 pm 9:42 pm
PS Yes, there were some tears in this household when you signed off, Charlie. Couldn’t help ourselves. Nice to see you smile and be surrounded by your staff and friends there at World News Headquarters in NYC. What fine tributes to you at the end as well. You really have rocked our news these last few years, Charlie!!!!!
Posted by: Doug | December 18, 2009, 9:44 pm 9:44 pm
Our son discovered Charlie and Joan when he was in sixth grade and watched them every morning. That was 23 years ago. My husband and I have continued tuning in to GMA for all those years. We have also watched ABC Evening News every day.
Best wishes on your retirement, Charlie!
Posted by: f. w. | December 18, 2009, 9:56 pm 9:56 pm
Charlie,
I’ve watched you since we were both very young adults in DC — not many days have passed in nearly 40 years that I did not see or hear you. To say I’ll miss you doesn’t nearly cover it.
One of the biggest thrills of my life was getting to ask you a question on your Y2K live chat from London.
I’ve always regarded you as the one reporter on TV who held true to the tenet of keeping your personal bias to yourself, while still retaining your personal charm and courtesy to both subject and viewer. You never tried to be the story, and whatever the story was, I always felt better about getting the news from you.
I hope all your days are good ones, Charlie.
Posted by: Nancy | December 18, 2009, 10:01 pm 10:01 pm
I hope you’ve a good day Charlie!
Posted by: Matt | December 18, 2009, 10:01 pm 10:01 pm
Dear Charlie,
Your professionalism will be missed and I wish you nothing but the best in retirement, no one has earned it more than you. Congrats!
Cheers
Posted by: Edward Park | December 18, 2009, 10:06 pm 10:06 pm
Although we’ve never met in person, I’m gonna miss you my friend.
regards
~Marc
Posted by: Marc Whisman | December 18, 2009, 10:11 pm 10:11 pm
Dear Charlie
When you gave the news, whether it was good or bad, I always knew it was reported acturately. I wish you most of all Good Health, as you retire.
Posted by: Jean Czaplewski | December 18, 2009, 10:11 pm 10:11 pm
I grew up with you Charlie….watching you all the way. You delivered the NEWS the way Americns expects it to be told. Have a good retirement. I’m going to miss you. But I know Diane will continue with the expectations of ABC news.
Posted by: sara | December 18, 2009, 10:18 pm 10:18 pm
Be Well, Charlie. You are one of the “good ones.” You’ll be missed as one of the true pros in this confusing news world.
Love from Colorado,
the G’s
Posted by: Colorado Matt | December 18, 2009, 10:36 pm 10:36 pm
Dear Charlie, You have been a valued friend to us all, someone to trust, to learn from, and to look forward to seeing. The news will never be the same without you. I pray that you find time in your retirement to do all those things you desire, to grow closer to your family, and to truly enjoy your life as much as we’ve all enjoyed you. I hope to see you around the Chicago area as you relax! All the best to you and your family, and thanks for everything over the years.
Posted by: Phil W. | December 18, 2009, 10:47 pm 10:47 pm
Dear Charlie,
I can remember my childhood days waking up each morning for school and watching the first half-hour of G.M.A. with you and Diane bringing everyone the headlines from around the world. I can remember your news reports from the columbine shootings to the 9/11 attacks to present day headlines. Now that i’m 22, and grown up I would like to thank you for helping me understand politics and the world we live in. I miss those days waking up with you and now the evening news. I hope you have an enjoyable holiday season and best wishes for a happy and healthy retirement, God bless you and your family for all that you’ve done. Thank-you.
Posted by: Mark | December 18, 2009, 10:55 pm 10:55 pm
Before you, Charlie, I watched Peter Jennings, and trusted him implicitly to give us the news without his own views or just one side presented. When he died, I didn’t think it was possible to like or accept any other evening newsanchor…that is, until you came along. I was skeptical at first, but you really impressed me with your fair and compassionate manner, including the way you always signed off at the end of the broadcast. With all due respect to Peter Jennings–and no blasphemy intended toward his name–to me, you surpassed even him, and that’s saying a lot! I will miss you terribly.
Posted by: Madge | December 18, 2009, 11:08 pm 11:08 pm
SO SAD TO SEE YOU GO, CHARLIE, AS YOU ARE ALL WE WATCHED. THANK YOU FOR YOUR GOOD REPORTING AND HAVE A WONDERFUL RETIREMENT. I REMEMBER YOU SAID YOU HAD LOTS YOU WANTED TO DO! YOUR LEAVING IS A BIG LOSS FOR THE ABC VIEWERS…..GOD BLESS!!!
Posted by: KAY | December 19, 2009, 12:05 am 12:05 am
Charlie,
GMA did several ongoing stories about Alzheimer’s Disease in the early 2000′s. My Dad (Marty Manning) was on- a couple of times advocating for more research and generally trying to educate the public about AD. We lost my Mom to AD in ’01. I want to thank you for helping “get the word out”.
You remind me a lot of my Dad- a man with great integrity, my hero.
And That is my message for tonight, I’m Liz Coppens and I hope you had a good day. From all of here in the Manning family, I hope you have a GREAT retirement!
I shall miss watching you.
P.S. When you would say “I hope you have a good night” at the end of each broadcast I would say “Thank you Charlie!” to the TV. I hope you can hear my now; THANK YOU CHARLIE!!
Posted by: E Coppens | December 19, 2009, 12:15 am 12:15 am
Dear Charlie, I’m a senior and therefore have had the pleasure of watching/listening to your various reporting assignment for many years. The best have been the last few years you have been bringing the evening news.
You will be missed much more than you know by We who listen to you faithfully. May God keep you and your family well, and may you have a truly great retirement. God speed, my friend.l
Posted by: Annie | December 19, 2009, 12:30 am 12:30 am
We’ll miss you. You and Tivo have made us nightly news watchers again. We trusted you,
Posted by: Aleksandar Totic | December 19, 2009, 1:03 am 1:03 am
Dear charlie,
I have been watching you for years
I will miss you.hope you enjoy your
retirement.thank you
Posted by: ferry bolourian | December 19, 2009, 1:07 am 1:07 am
Dear Charlie,
I, my 8 year old and my 11 year old have watched your newscast for a couple years. Watching the violent events of the day can be somewhat dicey with two children, but I do not want them to grow up in a bubble. They need to know what’s happening out there, and you delivered the news with honesty, compassion and a valued straightforwardness. The rule was that if anyone had a question, they could shout, “Pause!” and we would talk about whatever the question was. We will miss you, and we’ve learned to appreciate “good days.” Thank you.
Posted by: Margie | December 19, 2009, 1:18 am 1:18 am
Hi Charlie,
Thanks for coming into my home in the evenings. Happy Retirement!!
Posted by: Patty | December 19, 2009, 1:31 am 1:31 am
Dear Charlie: For the past few years I have welcomed you in my living room each evening. I have enjoyed your style of reporting, which is done with respect and kindness. I do look forward to hearing an occasional story from you future, as I will really miss you. I wish you and your family nothing but the best in your retirement. I love you, Charlie, and I hope YOU had a good day!
Posted by: Marilyn Bower | December 19, 2009, 6:54 am 6:54 am
Dear Charlie,
I wish you well in your retirement. God knows that you certainly deserve this time with your family. Thank you for years of bringing the news to us in an objective, honest and sincere way. I always felt that you really wanted the best for all of us. Watching the ABC news with you was a highlight of my day. As you wished us a good day each day, I do for each day of your future. I wish you a happy and healthy future. Happy Holidays!
Posted by: Sheila | December 19, 2009, 7:09 am 7:09 am
Charlie,
I have watched you since you started on Good Morning America and then on to World News. While I understand your decision to leave, I still feel like I am losing a close and trusted friend.
I feel about your reporting the way I did about Walter Cronkite – I knew I was getting the facts, and you were never bias. I beleived in what you were saying. Enjoy your retirement, do all things you never had the time for.
Congratulations on a wonderful career, and I will miss you at 6:30pm.
I wish you and your family a wonderful Holiday Season.
Posted by: Angela | December 19, 2009, 8:45 am 8:45 am
Dear Charlie,
You will truly be missed. I wish you all the best in your retirement. You deserve some time with your family and friends and I hope you have many healthy and happy years ahead.
Posted by: Ann | December 19, 2009, 9:02 am 9:02 am
Charlie, You are right up there in our respect with Chet, David and Walter. What will we do without your objective voice? I hope you enjoyed your career because we did! Well deserved retirement to you!
Posted by: sk | December 19, 2009, 9:32 am 9:32 am
Dear Charlie:
I will miss seeing you on the nightly news but I hope you will enjoy your retirement.
You said something last night that really helped me.
I had to retire on a disability 18 months ago from my “dream job.” I have had a difficult time accepting my retirement. I enjoy being with my husband & family & doing things I never got to do but I also miss the work & working with the great staff I had.
I am going to take what you said to heart & start enjoying my retirement.
Your statement was something like:
My parents taught me to ‘understay’ rather than ‘overstay’ my ‘welcome.’
I will take that as my motto, that it was better that I ‘understayed’ my welcome.
Thank you for all you have done, Charlie. Enjoy your retirement!
Posted by: Little Fox | December 19, 2009, 9:51 am 9:51 am
Most of the viewers liked Gibson as a person. However, the whole ABC News organization is full of leftist that appear to be be both unaware and unconcerned about issues that are dear to conservatives. This unfortunately was true not only of Mr Gibson and is true of George Stephanopoulos and every personality that comes to mind. In recent weeks there has been outcries about not only 8 million illegals working in the U.S. but 125,000 new Visas issued every month for Foreign workers to work in the U.S. ABC has frequent discussion of the unemployment problem. But there is no mentioned for those calling for work place enforcement of immigration law or those that wish to have the number of Visa issued reduced. Very large numbers of Americans support these position- they are not mention on ABC “news”.
Posted by: merchantilist | December 19, 2009, 9:58 am 9:58 am
Well gee “that was the first time I’ve heard of it”
Posted by: midwsetflyover | December 19, 2009, 10:47 am 10:47 am
Dear Charlie,
Happy Retirement Charlie!! Thank you for a job well done!! You are a trusted news anchor that we all have came to love since 2006 and we will miss you at our house in the evenings!
Posted by: B.Cheah | December 19, 2009, 10:58 am 10:58 am
A third of a Century, Wow.. But ABC news just cant help attaching a paid commercial at the beginning of his farewell online video. Shame till the end ABC. Got to get that revenue despite one of their own signing off. Greed and consent continues well after Charles retirement. Way to send him off the air ABC.
Posted by: spoon2456 | December 19, 2009, 11:16 am 11:16 am
Mr. Gibson, you’re a gem. Thank you so much for all you have given us all these years. Thank you for keeping me entertained while I was on bedrest for my pregnancy back in 2006. Ha! I’m sure gonna miss you. Love you bunches. Now, go have some fun and much needed rest in your retirement.
Posted by: Mandee | December 19, 2009, 11:21 am 11:21 am
Mr. Gibson, i’m going to miss you being on ABC. it will never be the same. you are the best newsman and just a wonderful human being all round. i will never forget you coming to my elementary school just to visit and see a play.
back then, i saw you as larger than life and still today, i feel the same.
i cried watching your last telecast. Enjoy retirement and i wish you and yours a happy holiday and the best for your futures.
You are one of my only reasons for watching the news, bring my family together through wonderful and tough times. to a news anchor i can trust: THANK YOU!
Posted by: christa | December 19, 2009, 12:54 pm 12:54 pm
Charlie,
I first saw you on GMA with Joan all those years ago as I was getting ready for school…elementary that is! I grew up watching you and Peter Jennings and would always try and be home to watch each of your broadcasts. I was truly saddend by Peter’s passing and was thrilled when you took the chair as both of you had the ability to deliver the news with such integrity, honesty and reassurrance that we so needed during rough times. You shared with us your sense of humor, and your heart and many times, we cried along with you. Thank you for sharing your time and your talents with us. There are many of us who will dearly miss you.
Posted by: Nan | December 19, 2009, 1:05 pm 1:05 pm
Charlie,
My whole life you have been a presence during my week. Whether I was watching you on GMA as a little girl, sitting on my parent’s bed while my mom got ready, or tuning in at 6:30 every evening to listen to the day’s events, you were there. When I decided to become a journalist, it was you and Peter Jennings who I looked up to and said “I want to be like that.”
Thank you for your kindness, your objectivity, and your passion for bringing us the news. And even if I had a horrible day, I always felt a little better at the end of the broadcast when you told us that you hoped we had a good day.
Enjoy retirement Charlie, you’ve earned it! Best of wishes to you and your family and may you have a long and enjoyable retirement.
And to Diane, I look forward to watching you starting on Monday.
Thanks again Charlie, for being a class act and one of the best journalists I have seen.
Posted by: Logan | December 19, 2009, 1:08 pm 1:08 pm
Dear Charlie, Wishing you all good things on your retirement. You were given a beautiful sendoff and you will be missed. Enjoy part 2.
Posted by: Paula | December 19, 2009, 1:16 pm 1:16 pm
GOOD!!!!
Posted by: lovingpolitics | December 19, 2009, 1:45 pm 1:45 pm
Dear Charlie, I have followed you for years on ABC. You have my complete trust and respect as a newsman and you will be greatly missed. I have rushed home for years if only just in time to hear your soft spoken thoughtfulness hoping I had a good day! I took that very personally and your words got me through some pretty tough times. ENJOY AND RELAX now with your family. If ever in Clovis, CA. my home is always open to you and yours. Merry Christmas – I love you Charlie!!!
Posted by: Lisa Smith | December 19, 2009, 2:01 pm 2:01 pm
Good luck, Charlie.
Come see us in New Orleans.
Louisiana was rated #l in “Happiness”.
Well, there you go.
Posted by: ddg | December 19, 2009, 2:11 pm 2:11 pm
Good Luck in your retirement, I’ve enjoyed watching you for the past several years. I always got a sense from you that you are a very kind sincere caring person and looking at these post just validates that. Take Care enjoy the rest of the ride.
Posted by: Steve Kurtz | December 19, 2009, 2:16 pm 2:16 pm
Enjoy your retirement, Charlie. Thank YOU for being part of dining room and living room for all these many years.
Posted by: Lou Lange | December 19, 2009, 2:36 pm 2:36 pm
From The Netherlands I would like to say that Charles Gibson the Second best Anchor men is after Walter Cronikte. Charles Gibson I would like to say enyoy your retriment.And I Wish Diane Sawyer The Luck of all.
Posted by: Remco | December 19, 2009, 3:07 pm 3:07 pm
Dear Charlie:
Happy retirement, my friend. You well deserve it after logging in nearly 35 years into ABC and for that, I commend you!
I, like many, many others enjoyed your company into my home and will deeply miss it. You were the highlight of my evening. Your calm, professional and reassuring manner made even the most panic worthy news seem like no big deal to worry about. That’s what I have always liked about you, Charlie.
Also like many others included in your loyal viewing audience for World News, I sincerely enjoyed your signature phrase used toward the end of each newscast “I hope you had a good day”. Well Charlie, I sincerely hope that the rest of your days in retirement are “good”.
This is Josh from Michigan, Charlie, saying that “I hope you have a good day”, too. As I say farewell to you for the final time, I again congratulate you on your retirement and I hope that you enjoy it! Farewell, Charles Gibson…
Posted by: Josh | December 19, 2009, 3:50 pm 3:50 pm
Dear Charlie,
You taught me, I learned so much from you, I was asked once out of three who would I want to have dinner with, and you were the first, President Ob. was second, the Queen would have been last. Yes I will very much miss you, Yes you are owed a tour of more knowledge to share with yourself and see what else you have missed, GOD spead to you Charlie take care, BLOODY GOOD and YES take care, HUGS to you and wife, with love and thoughtfulness, JeannMJW,,Montana
Posted by: Jeanne Marie Johnoson | December 19, 2009, 4:39 pm 4:39 pm
Retiring? In what respect, Charlie?
Posted by: Sarah Palin | December 19, 2009, 4:46 pm 4:46 pm
As you’ve stated so many times that it has been a pleasure for you. No Sir, it has truly been a pleasure for me. You have honored me with your down home sincere news reporting. Thank you, Sir.
As the kids say (I guess they still say this) – YOU ROCK!!
God Bless
Posted by: Debi | December 19, 2009, 6:28 pm 6:28 pm
I don’t think you can hear it enough, so I will add my thanks to this long list. I so deeply appreciate the objective way you delivered the news and I watched almost every day. I’m not sure how “the parties” will get along without your humanitarian perspective. We are all in this together. I just hope that the news business learns from your example and can continue on that objective journey. You really made a difference. Thank you.
Posted by: Barb | December 19, 2009, 7:10 pm 7:10 pm
WE IN STATE OF INDIANA WILL MISS YOU VERY MUCH AND HOPE YOU HAVE A NICE TIME OFF AND MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM ALL IN STATE OF INDIANA
Posted by: bill jordan | December 19, 2009, 8:49 pm 8:49 pm
You have done a great job and have a great retirement.
We will miss you very much. Thanks for being there and giving us the best you could from the bottom of your heart.
Posted by: C. K. Justus | December 19, 2009, 9:29 pm 9:29 pm
Thanks Charlie for the memories. I missed you when you left GMA and I will miss you now as well.
Posted by: Amy | December 19, 2009, 10:14 pm 10:14 pm
Charlie (I’m sorry–you are more than “Mr. Gibson” to us):
You have been a worthy successor to Peter Jennings…and we thought the world of him.
You have every good wish from our family.
Posted by: Elaine in Arkansas | December 19, 2009, 10:20 pm 10:20 pm
I was devastated when you left GMA but glad to see you on the evening news. Now that you’re leaving again, what am I going to do. I’ve been a fan of ABC
News since discovering you on GMA. I believe you are the consumate newsperson. As you stated in your final
broadcast I felt you were objective and ttrustworthy, a true successor to Walter Cronkite. I always turned to ABC for any breaking news. I wish you and your family all the best.
Posted by: June Hirano | December 19, 2009, 10:21 pm 10:21 pm
Dear Charlie,
I’ll miss you! I hope you do all the things you want and find great joy in the years ahead. Good thoughts for you and yours.
Posted by: Susan | December 19, 2009, 10:28 pm 10:28 pm
Charlie,
Thank you for your contribution to help keep me informed and entertained. It is not always easy to watch time move forward and see all the people, places, institutions, and ideas change, leave, or retire. I have been alive for 38 years and for the majority of those years, you were always there in one way or another. You have been a staple of my life many times and your retirement will be noticed and missed.
Posted by: Chris | December 20, 2009, 7:08 am 7:08 am
You have to be kidding me! I loved Charlie Gibson on GMA; but, a newsman, he’s not. He is anything but objective; just compare his interview with President Bush with that of President Obama. He and Obama are buddies! His didainful, pained expresion while interviewing President Bush says it all. An even better example is the interview with Sarah Palin which borders on rude and condescending. Unfortunately, although I also loved Diane Sawyer on GMA, we have the same to look forward to. Alas, there are no more Peter Jennings out there. I truly never knew what political beliefs HE held.
Posted by: Eileen | December 20, 2009, 8:25 am 8:25 am
Hi Charlie! Notice I did not say “Goodbye Charlie”! I feel like you are part of my family, and I will miss seeing you Monday through Friday in my home. I am so sad that you are leaving, but so happy that you have made the decision to enjoy every second of every minute of your life. The whole country loves you (young, old, black, white, and everything in between). Have the best life ever, and if you could just let us see your face from time-to-time, and let us know how you are doing, that would be so great. After all, that’s what families do!!! Donna in McDonough, GA
Posted by: Donna | December 20, 2009, 5:22 pm 5:22 pm
Mr. Gibson is admired by some and questioned by some ( including me) if he really was ever impartial interviewing Sarah Palain ? The most important and essential ingredient for good journalism.
Posted by: seyed morris raji | December 20, 2009, 5:45 pm 5:45 pm
Mr. Gibson,
To achieve respect, trust, and a good reputation not only in your profession but also among people is the standard held by few. Watching you has been my privilege. Thanks.
Respectfully,
Roshin
Posted by: Roshin Rowjee | December 20, 2009, 7:08 pm 7:08 pm
I’m happy that he can take the time now to spend with his family and do all the things he has never had time to do, but we will miss him. I wish they had gotten someone wlse to succeed him.
We love Charlie Gibson. Diane Sawyer? Not so much.
Posted by: Melanie | December 21, 2009, 1:28 am 1:28 am
All I can say is good riddance. He showed his colors when he interviewed Sara Palin, when he acted as demeaning as he could, to show her in a bad light. When else did he wear his glasses down on his nose, acting so snooty? hey-hey-hey, goodbye!
Posted by: Nate | December 22, 2009, 10:04 pm 10:04 pm
Charlie…I will so miss you but wish you the best in your retirement. I knew I could always count on you for objectivity and I was especially grateful for the positive stories at the end of every newscast. It gave me hope and you gave credibility. Your good character always shone through. Congratulations for a job very well done!!!
Posted by: Mary | December 26, 2009, 10:39 am 10:39 am
charlie ..you are missed more than i can express,,best wishes on your retirement , but please come back to us from time to time…I miss your presitation of the news and ,mostly: your nightly sign off…so i hope you had a good day and from all of us who were loyal veiwers,,a good night.,Johnanna
Posted by: johnanna | January 15, 2010, 9:51 pm 9:51 pm
SIR CHARLIE YOU, ARE ALL READY MISSED>
Posted by: Mario | February 2, 2010, 6:40 pm 6:40 pm
Charlie, Now we know what we have lost! You brought dignity and kindness to the news even when it was awful. We really missed you during the coverage of Haiti, because your coverage would have been about the people there, not about you. At the same time, I admire you for leaving before you were worn out and giving your family the pleasure we have had of spending evenings with you. I do hope we will see you again on special occasions. All the best to you and those you love.
Posted by: Mary Carter | February 5, 2010, 9:51 am 9:51 am
Congratulations on your retirement, Charlie. I’ve enjoyed watching you on Good Morning America and World News all these years…and most of all I enjoyed knowing you and your family during my years at Kent Place. I think of you all often and have many fond memories of fun times with your family and Dexter!
Please give my best to Arlene, Jessica and Katherine.
All the best to you, and remember if you ever get out to Phoenix please let me know.
Carolyn
Posted by: Carolyn Hallock | February 17, 2010, 12:32 am 12:32 am
I miss Charlie. It’s hard to watch Nightly New without him.
Posted by: Tami | June 7, 2010, 10:46 pm 10:46 pm