Dr. Jen Ashton, the Chief Health and Medical Correspondent for ABC, experienced an emotional farewell on her final day at “Good Morning America” (GMA). The broadcast, which aired on Thursday, was filled with heartfelt tributes from her colleagues and a special video message from Hollywood actor Chris Hemsworth.
Ashton, who has been a staple on the morning talk show for over 13 years, was surrounded by her peers on set. Cohost Lara Spencer introduced a touching video montage that celebrated Ashton’s numerous accomplishments during her tenure at the network.
“Dr. Jen is passionate and compassionate, and that’s what you want, especially from a doctor,” veteran anchor Robin Roberts said at the beginning of the clip. The montage also featured fellow show personality Michael Strahan, who praised Ashton for making medical information accessible and engaging for GMA’s audience.
Dr. Darien Sutton, a regular on GMA3, the program’s third hour, affectionately referred to Ashton as “the Beyoncé of medicine.” He commended her ability to simplify complex medical information for viewers at home.
The video highlighted Ashton’s extensive coverage of medical emergencies, including her leadership during ABC’s coverage of the COVID-19 pandemic and her life-saving tips for mass shooting incidents. It also touched on her personal journey, including her candid discussions about her ex-husband’s 2017 suicide to raise awareness for mental health issues.
“When it became a public story again, she felt the responsibility of coming forward with that,” Ashton’s daughter, Chloe, said in the footage. Roberts added, “Vulnerability, it’s a strength. It takes courage. It takes courage to share something so personal, and Jen did it in hopes of helping others.”
Back in the studio, Ashton expressed her gratitude to her colleagues for the tribute and thanked them for their support in disseminating vital information to the audience. “What really stands out as I look at those 13-plus years is those moments in our country’s history where together we helped people at home with insight and perspective and analysis that I think we do better than anyone in network news, here at ABC,” she said. “Some of the biggest moments in our country’s history in health, we covered. That was an incredible honor and privilege.”
The emotional farewell was further heightened by a surprise video message from Chris Hemsworth. “Hi Jen, Chris here! I just want to say good luck and congratulations on your next venture. Lots of love, hope to see you soon!” the actor said. Ashton smiled at the clip and reminisced about a past segment where she performed a challenging physical fitness routine with Hemsworth, known for his role as Marvel’s Thor.
The show concluded by welcoming Ashton’s family to the set. Ashton addressed GMA’s viewers, saying, “You’re the reason that I do what I do and that I wake up in the morning.” She signed off with an optimistic note about possibly returning in the future, stating, “I’m always on call for GMA and ABC News, and you guys know where to find me.”
Ashton announced her departure from ABC in April to focus on growing her free newsletter, Ajenda. The 55-year-old is double-board-certified in OB-GYN and obesity medicine and holds a degree in nutrition. Before her long tenure at ABC, Ashton was a medical correspondent for CBS and regularly appeared on the syndicated talk show “The Doctors” and “The Dr. Oz Show.”
Ashton’s departure marks the end of an era for GMA, where she has been a trusted source of medical information and a compassionate voice during some of the most challenging times in recent history. Her contributions have not only educated viewers but also provided comfort and clarity during health crises.
Her colleagues’ tributes and the heartfelt message from Chris Hemsworth underscore the impact she has had on both her peers and the audience. As Ashton embarks on her new venture, her legacy at GMA will undoubtedly be remembered for years to come.
Source: ABC News, Entertainment Weekly
