David Muir's Devastating Farewell: 'I Don't Know What I'm Going to Do'
SHOCKING EXIT: ABC World News Tonight's Beloved Stage Manager Michele Mayer Bids Farewell After Three Decades
In a stunning move that has left fans of ABC World News Tonight reeling, stage manager extraordinaire Michele "Shelly" Mayer is packing her bags and leaving the network after an impressive three decades. But in a heartwarming tribute, anchor David Muir revealed that he's still struggling to come to terms with her departure.
The 51-year-old news veteran got his hair cut and donned a full suit, a rare sight behind the desk, in honor of Mayer's last day on set. "I'm still in denial about all this," Muir admitted, visibly shaken by the news. "My partner in crime is leaving, and I don't know what I'll do without her."
Mayer, who has been standing right next to that camera, cueing up anchors like Peter Jennings, Charlie Gibson, and Diane Sawyer for decades, will be returning to her home state of Kentucky to "catch her breath." But it's clear that Muir won't be breathing easily anytime soon.
The two have shared a special bond over the years, with Muir often joking about Mayer's keen eye for detail. "She's the one who's queuing me every single night," he said, chuckling. "And if you look closely at this wide shot of the studio before we go on, the camera pans, and there's Shelly with her hands on her hips."
But beneath the lighthearted banter lies a deep affection for Mayer, who has been a constant presence behind the scenes. Muir went so far as to reveal that he'd only ever worn a full suit once or twice a year, but made an exception for Mayer's last day. "I've got my watch on because Shelly likes it when I show up with my watch on," he said.
Sawyer, who worked alongside Mayer for many years, also paid tribute to her former colleague, revealing some of the humorous messages she'd relayed while on-air. "Michele always there to say, 'run along,' or 'slow it down,'" Sawyer chuckled. "Or in my case, she had signs printed out. Most often, [the sign read] 'sit up straight.'"
The news of Mayer's departure has sent shockwaves through the ABC World News Tonight team, with many colleagues expressing their sadness and gratitude on social media. But as for Muir, he's still trying to come to terms with losing his partner in crime.
"I don't know what I'm going to do without Shelly," he said, his voice filled with emotion. "But I want her to know that she deserves this. Go home to Kentucky, go be back with your family, your horses, and the beautiful countryside."
As Mayer heads off into a well-deserved retirement, one thing is clear: ABC World News Tonight will never be the same without its beloved stage manager.
Sources:
- The Scholarly Note (thescholarlynote.com)
