Ex-‘World News Now’ Anchor Reveals Toxic Work Culture at ABC News Involving Racism and Bullying

Inside the Unsettling Work Culture at ABC News: Insights from Ex-Anchor

In a revealing exposé, former ‘World News Now’ anchor Kendis Gibson has opened up about the troubling environment at ABC News during his tenure. Gibson, now 52, has made serious allegations of racism and a detrimental work culture that he claims significantly impacted his mental health, leading to a suicide attempt.

Gibson, who is set to publish a book titled “Five Trips: An Investigative Journey into Mental Health, Psychedelic Healing and Saving a Life,” recounts how his mental well-being deteriorated during his time at ABC. Although he received a warm welcome from the likes of Good Morning America anchors such as Michael Strahan and Robin Roberts when he joined in 2014, he was also warned of challenging times ahead. An unnamed black colleague allegedly hinted at the workplace’s racial dynamics, saying, “Welcome to Mickey’s plantation.” When Gibson queried further, the colleague ominously replied, “You’ll find out.”

Gibson’s book sheds light on his struggles, highlighting feelings of dread and depression as he took over the overnight slot on ‘World News Now’ from T.J. Holmes. Despite the seemingly glamorous position, he stated, “There was an underlying depression already there,” and he relied on Ambien to manage insomnia and anxiety associated with the role.

The pressures led Gibson to contemplate suicide after a particularly taxing night of anchoring. His attempt was in stark contrast to the smiles and good mornings he exchanged with colleagues. Fortunately, he fell instead and landed on his kitchen floor, where he was rescued by his close friend Mike Woods. Following the incident, he returned to work just hours later and began seeing a therapist who prescribed medication for his struggles with depression and anxiety.

Despite the turmoil, ABC later offered Gibson a one-year contract extension and a salary increase. He turned down the offer, feeling that his health and well-being were more important than staying in such a challenging environment.

After leaving ABC, Gibson joined MSNBC but found himself embroiled in controversy when a former boss was terminated due to alleged racially insensitive remarks involving him and other personalities. This incident left Gibson emotionally shattered, prompting him to leave MSNBC after a brief tenure.

Now at PIX11 News in New York City, he reflects on his journey, expressing relief and happiness. “I’m in a different space. It’s the first time I’ve been anywhere where I’m not looking for the next job and I’m comfortable in my skin.” Gibson’s story sheds light on the importance of addressing workplace issues and the profound effects of mental health struggles in the demanding world of news broadcasting.