Is George Stephanopoulos Leaving 'Good Morning America'? Here's Why Fans Grew Concerned

Viewers who tune into ABC's Good Morning America were concerned when longtime co-anchor George Stephanopoulos was missing from the show during week of June 17, 2024.

He appeared again on June 24, but was absent again on June 26. Viewers were glad to see him return the following day to wish Dr. Jen Ashton a fond farewell on her last episode before she departed from the network.

But is George departing along with her?

There are no reports that George is leaving GMA. In fact, it looks like the reason for his recent absences was because his beloved father, Reverend Robert George Stephanopoulos — affectionately known as Father Bob — passed away on June 19 at the age of 89. George was likely taking time off to grieve and be with his loved ones.

George's wife, actress Ali Wentworth, posted a heartfelt tribute to her father-in-law on social media alongside several black-and-white photos from her and George's wedding, where Robert had married the two.

"Reverend Robert George Stephanopoulos, PhD, Dean Emeritus Archdiocesan Cathedral of the Holy Trinity passed away on June 19th," wrote Ali. "He was my father-in-law and I loved him dearly. He married us. He laughed with us. He debated our daughters. He praised my Thanksgiving turkey. He loved ice cream. He was everyone’s council. He married or baptized almost every Greek on the eastern seaboard. He was held in the highest regard. He will be missed by so many. Sagapo Father Bob."

Robert — who also had impressive career as a theologian and ecunemist, according to his obituary — was born in Neohorion, Elias, Greece, in November 1934 and followed in his father's footsteps to become a priest. He met his future wife (and mother of his four children, including George) Presvytera Nikki in 1954 at a church youth convention.

She passed away in 2023, a year before her husband.