ABC’s David Muir welcomes new edition to ‘the family’ as fans congratulate him

A new addition is making its way to ABC and David Muir was the first to announce the exciting news to viewers, who were thrilled to welcome them with open arms

David Muir
David Muir announced that there is a new addition coming to ABC News

There’s a new ABC affiliate in town!

Ahead of ABC World News Tonight’s Monday installment, David Muir issued a statement via the ABC News Instagram account announcing that the network was expecting a new arrival. “David Muir here from ABC News, World News Tonight. We welcome WSVN to the ABC News family. We love Miami, Fort Lauderdale, the Florida Keys, and like always, we’ll see you for World News Tonight. Now on the new ABC Miami,” he gushed.

At one point during the live program, David spoke with his new co-stars Craig Stevens and Belkys Nerey. “We’re proud to have your broadcast on our air,” Craig raved as he addressed David. It comes after Muir issued a bombshell 4-word update to viewers as he stepped away from his desk on air.

Craig said: “Now, we know you, of course, for your years of covering stories across the country and the globe. It’s fair to say, though, that you also have a clear understanding of South Florida, having covered so many stories here.”

David replied, “Thanks so much for that. And first of all, let me just say, Craig and Belkys, just to be a part of your team. Now the two of you are like institutions there in South Florida. I’ve watched you many times when I come into town, and I cannot believe that finally, finally, our name is on one of those banners going over South Beach.”

“They’re usually, you know, advertising something else. So great to see World News Tonight in the air over South Florida. And really great to be part of ABC Miami and Seven News and what you do every day there,” he added.

The long-running ABC anchor, 51, went on to recall some of the times he had jetted over to the Atlantic coast to cover major events like Hurricane Milton and then the tornadoes in the east, as well as an “inspiring” young boy he met who had lost his father during the coronavirus.

Craig Stevens
Craig Stevens welcomed ABC News and David Muir to Miami(Image: ABC)

“So, so much of what you’re doing in South Florida really is incredible. You guys have the best reporting team, and I can’t wait to be part of Seven News now,” David concluded.

Belkys exclaimed, “David Muir’s a fan of 7 News! Who knew? We’re so touched, David,” before adding, “We know you’re so, so busy, but before we let you go, what can we expect on World News Tonight this evening?” prompting David to tease what was coming up over on his show.

A clip of the exchange was shared on Instagram along with the caption, “From national to local, we’re proud to be part of the ABC News family, united by a commitment to telling meaningful stories with integrity and purpose. Thank you, David, for the warm welcome and thoughtful conversation.”

Fans were thrilled to learn of the news, with one user commenting, “He Greatest Of All On ABC Nightly News Anchor David Muir. Congrats.” A second said, “Congratulations,” with another adding, “Congratulations…. Great collaboration….”

A fourth user joked, “Craig’s bringing that tan strong for the new channel!” referring to the 7 News anchor’s impressive sun-kissed skin. “Love David Muir,” someone else said.

David Muir
David admitted he was thrilled to welcome ABC Miami to the network(Image: ABC)

ABC indeed began broadcasting with a new local affiliate in Miami on Monday, just months after Disney Entertainment sealed a deal with Sunbeam Television Corporation.

Under the deal established in March, ABC Miami will broadcast its national sports, news and entertainment programming over the air on Channel 7.2 in the Miami-Fort Lauderdale television market, according to a statement. ABC can also be watched on local Channel 18.

“We are incredibly excited to join forces with Sunbeam Television in South Florida moving forward as they not only share Disney’s enduring commitment to serving local communities, but they also recognize the value of ABC’s esteemed brand and the significant investments we’re making to our world-class network content,” Susi D’Ambra Coplan, Disney Entertainment’s senior vice president of affiliate relations, said in a statement.