Six months after Hurricane Helene wreaked havoc in western North Carolina, "Good Morning America" (GMA) returned to Asheville to showcase the community's resilience and ongoing recovery efforts. On March 27, 2025, co-anchor Robin Roberts, chief meteorologist Ginger Zee, and WABC-TV weather anchor Sam Champion broadcast live from Highland Brewing Co. in Asheville, focusing on the strength and spirit of the local residents.
The special episode titled "Asheville Rising" aimed to highlight the challenges faced by families navigating aid delays, the struggles of small businesses striving to recover, and the contributions of hometown heroes and local leaders who are driving restoration efforts across the region. As the cameras rolled, the hosts engaged with community members, bringing awareness to the ongoing needs in the area.
During the live broadcast, the program featured segments that spotlighted Asheville's economic resurgence and the revitalization of key cultural and business districts. This focus on recovery was not just about showcasing the positive; it also addressed the real struggles many residents continue to face in the aftermath of the storm.
In a heartfelt moment, GMA surprised Brittany Killian, a staff member at Cane Creek Middle School, with a brand new 2024 Toyota RAV4 XLE as a token of appreciation for her heroic efforts during the storm. Killian was named a "Hometown Hero" for her dedication to helping others during the crisis. This touching gesture underscored the theme of community support that characterized the entire event.
As the show continued, viewers were treated to live donations and giveaways, further enhancing the spirit of generosity and support. The highlight of the broadcast was a special performance by Chase Rice, a country music singer-songwriter and North Carolina native, who entertained the crowd and honored the resilience of Asheville's residents.
The hosts expressed their admiration for the community's determination in the face of adversity. "It's incredible to see how far the people of Asheville have come in just six months," said Roberts during the broadcast. "Their strength and perseverance are truly inspiring. We are here to support them and celebrate their journey of recovery."
Ginger Zee also took a moment to discuss the broader implications of climate change and its impact on communities like Asheville. "Events like Hurricane Helene remind us of the urgent need to address climate resilience," she noted, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and community solidarity in the face of natural disasters.
The event was not only a celebration but also a call to action for viewers to contribute to ongoing recovery efforts. Community members gathered at Highland Brewing to cheer on their local heroes and participate in the live broadcast, creating an atmosphere of unity and hope.
In addition to honoring local heroes, the event showcased the efforts of organizations like the River Arts District Artists Foundation, which aims to support local artists and promote cultural revitalization in the area. Leaders from these organizations participated in the broadcast, sharing their vision for a thriving Asheville.
As the broadcast concluded, the hosts and crew posed for a photo with the enthusiastic community members, capturing the essence of the day—a celebration of resilience, hope, and the spirit of Asheville. The cheers and smiles from the crowd reflected a community coming together to support one another as they continue to rebuild.
Asheville’s recovery journey is far from over, but events like "Asheville Rising" serve as a reminder of the strength that lies within the community. With ongoing support and renewed focus on recovery efforts, the people of Asheville are determined to rise above the challenges they face.
As the hosts wrapped up the program, they encouraged viewers to stay engaged and support local initiatives aimed at helping those affected by the storm. The message was clear: together, the community can overcome adversity and emerge stronger than ever.
