In a moment that left millions of viewers across the nation stunned, David Muir, the beloved anchor of ABC’s World News Tonight, delivered an emotional farewell during his broadcast on July 17, 2025, marking the end of his 11-year tenure as the face of the network’s flagship evening news program. His raw, heartfelt confession—“This is the hardest thing I’ve ever done…”—brought tears to the eyes of fans and colleagues alike, sparking a wave of speculation and sorrow on social media and beyond. What prompted this sudden departure, and what were the final words that left viewers reeling?

A Storied Career at ABC

David Muir, 51, has been a cornerstone of American journalism since joining ABC News in 2003. Taking the helm of World News Tonight on September 1, 2014, after succeeding Diane Sawyer, Muir transformed the program into the most-watched evening newscast in the United States, outpacing rivals like NBC Nightly News by an average of 2 million viewers. His incisive reporting, empathetic delivery, and dedication to stories like his Emmy-nominated Made in America series earned him multiple Emmy Awards, Edward R. Murrow Awards, and a place on TIME’s 2025 list of the most influential people.

From international hotspots like Afghanistan, Ukraine, and Gaza to domestic crises such as the heroin epidemic and natural disasters, Muir’s journalism has been lauded for its depth and humanity. His America Strong segment, a celebration of resilience and hope, became a viewer favorite, cementing his reputation as a trusted voice in turbulent times. Yet, despite his accolades and the adoration of his audience, Muir’s abrupt exit has left a void in the newsroom and among his devoted fanbase.

The Emotional Farewell

On the evening of July 17, 2025, Muir’s broadcast began like any other, with reports on global and domestic events, including severe storms in the Midwest and a teen arrested in the murder of a Maine paddleboarder. But as the program neared its close, Muir’s tone shifted. Visibly emotional, he addressed the audience directly, his voice trembling as he spoke.

“This is the hardest thing I’ve ever done,” Muir began,