David Muir Named to TIME’s 100 Most Influential People of 2025

David Muir, the widely respected anchor of ABC News’ World News Tonight, has been named one of TIME magazine’s 100 Most Influential People of 2025, an honor that underscores his impact not only as a journalist but also as a trusted voice in uncertain times.

The announcement, made this morning, places Muir alongside global leaders, artists, scientists, and activists who are shaping the world’s future. His inclusion in the prestigious list reflects both his frontline reporting in conflict zones and his dedication to shedding light on humanitarian crises often overlooked by the global media.

A Tribute from Diane Sawyer

In TIME’s annual special issue, legendary journalist Diane Sawyer authored the tribute to Muir. Her words captured the essence of his influence: “Calm, courageous, and inspiring.” Sawyer praised Muir’s steadfast presence in the anchor chair as well as his willingness to step out from behind the desk to report in the field.

“He has stood on the frontlines of wars, listened to the cries of families devastated by disaster, and carried those stories home,” Sawyer wrote. “At a moment when trust in media is under siege, David embodies integrity and empathy.”

The tribute carried weight not only because of Muir’s achievements but also because it came from Sawyer, one of the most iconic broadcast journalists of the past half-century. Her acknowledgment serves as a symbolic passing of the torch to a new generation of journalism leaders.

Reporting from the Frontlines

Muir’s career has been defined by his relentless pursuit of stories that matter. From the battlefields of Ukraine and Israel to the rugged landscapes of Afghanistan, he has often chosen to report from dangerous environments where few correspondents venture. Viewers of World News Tonight have grown accustomed to seeing him in flak jackets, standing amid rubble, narrating the human cost of conflict.

In recent years, Muir has also focused on the growing crisis of climate change. His reporting has taken him to Madagascar, where prolonged drought has created famine conditions, and to South Sudan, where rising waters have displaced entire communities. By highlighting these stories, he has amplified voices rarely heard in mainstream news, placing human dignity at the center of his reporting.

A Trusted Voice for Millions

Since taking over as anchor of World News Tonight in 2014, Muir has helped transform the program into the most-watched evening newscast in America. At a time when the news industry faces declining trust and increasing polarization, his calm delivery and focus on facts have resonated with audiences across political and cultural divides.

Muir’s signature style combines gravitas with compassion. He is as comfortable interviewing presidents as he is speaking with families who have lost everything in a natural disaster. That balance has helped him earn credibility not only among policymakers but also among everyday viewers seeking clarity in chaotic times.

Influence Beyond Television

The recognition from TIME also reflects Muir’s broader cultural influence. Beyond anchoring, he frequently moderates town halls and conducts high-profile interviews, including with presidents, world leaders, and cultural figures. His work often sparks national conversations, whether about the direction of U.S. foreign policy, the plight of refugees, or the urgency of addressing climate change.

Colleagues describe him as tireless, often the first to arrive in the newsroom and the last to leave. His attention to detail and insistence on accuracy have set a standard that younger reporters look to emulate.

Journalism’s Enduring Purpose

Muir’s recognition comes at a pivotal moment for journalism. With social media platforms amplifying misinformation and traditional outlets struggling to adapt, many Americans express skepticism toward the news. Against this backdrop, his inclusion in the TIME 100 serves as a reminder of the enduring value of rigorous, on-the-ground reporting.

By telling stories directly from conflict zones and climate-stricken nations, Muir has emphasized that journalism is not merely about relaying facts — it is about bearing witness. His work demonstrates the power of journalism to illuminate suffering, foster empathy, and push leaders toward accountability.

Looking Ahead

For Muir, the honor is both recognition and responsibility. Speaking briefly after the announcement, he emphasized that the stories belong not to him but to the people whose voices he carries into living rooms across America.

“This recognition is really about the families I’ve met in war zones, in refugee camps, and in communities devastated by climate change,” Muir said. “Their courage inspires me every day. My job is simply to make sure their voices are heard.”

As the world confronts ongoing wars, humanitarian crises, and the existential threat of climate change, the role of journalists like David Muir is more essential than ever. His place on TIME’s list affirms that in an age of fleeting headlines and social media soundbites, there is still deep influence in the steady voice of a reporter committed to the truth.