Robin Roberts Taking More Time Off Than Planned as 'Today Show' Takes Lead
Robin Roberts of "Good Morning America" will be taking a longer hiatus than anticipated just as the morning broadcast was gaining an edge on its competitor, the "Today Show."
Roberts announced on Tuesday's "Good Morning America" that she was not feeling well and now planned on taking a longer break that she had originally anticipated.
The host was diagnose with Myelodysplastic Syndrome, a blood and bone marrow disorder that will require her to undergo a transplant. The transplant was scheduled for August, when Roberts planned on taking leave. Her new plan, however, entails leaving immediately to gain some down time before the operation takes place.
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"Well, a full disclosure here, I'm not feeling too well," said Roberts. "In fact I'm going to leave and let you all do the rest of the program on your own. I'm going to take a little time off, just to get some vacay ... I'll see you in a couple of weeks."
Although Roberts then treated the matter light heartedly, adding a joke or two about the situation, the announcement of leave was no joke at all and Roberts will have a number of co-workers pitching in to take her spot.
"For the rest of the week, Amy Robach will be reporting alongside Elliott and Lara Spencer, tomorrow through Friday, with Paula Faris joining as news anchor tomorrow and Thursday and Dan Harris pinch-hitting on Friday," MSN reported.
Barbara Walters, Diane Sawyer, Katie Couric and Kelly Ripa will also help at varying times in the future to cover Robert's spot.
The timing may be difficult for the "Good Morning America" show, which was just beginning to approach the "Today Show" in terms of ratings. Before Roberts actual departure, the "Today Show" had already increased the week's ratings.
"'Today' beat 'GMA' by 1.5 million viewers Monday - that's up 47% from last Monday," spokeswoman Megan Kopf said in a statement. "Anyone would argue that Monday's win is a very significant win."
