In a remarkable recognition of his impactful journalism, David Muir, the anchor of ABC's "World News Tonight," has been named one of TIME Magazine's 100 Most Influential People of 2025. The announcement, made on April 16, 2025, highlighted Muir's extensive contributions to news reporting, especially during critical global events.
Diane Sawyer, a former anchor of "World News Tonight" and a mentor to Muir, penned a heartfelt tribute in TIME, praising his calm demeanor and fearless reporting. "He shows up calm, respectful, and fearless," Sawyer remarked, emphasizing Muir's ability to tackle challenging stories with grace and authority. Sawyer, who retired in 2014, recognized Muir's dedication, stating, "I think I know what destiny looks like because I've seen a photo of a serious 13-year-old boy, talking his way into an internship at the local TV station." This early determination has clearly paid off, as Muir has risen to become a trusted voice in American journalism.
Over the years, Muir has reported from some of the world's most tumultuous regions, including Ukraine, Afghanistan, and Iraq, covering stories that range from natural disasters to humanitarian crises. His award-winning climate reporting, which includes efforts to raise millions for the World Food Programme, showcases his commitment to global issues. Sawyer noted Muir's travels to Madagascar and South Sudan, where he helped generate significant donations to assist starving children. "Like Peter Jennings before him, David is authoritative and dynamic—the first out the door to the story," she wrote, highlighting Muir's dedication to journalism.
In addition to his field reporting, Muir has conducted high-profile interviews with several U.S. Presidents, including Barack Obama, Donald Trump, and Joe Biden. His role as co-moderator in the only presidential debate between Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris garnered over 70 million viewers, underscoring his influence in shaping public discourse.
Fans and colleagues have also expressed their admiration for Muir's achievements. Social media reactions to his TIME recognition included comments like "The best of the best," and "I watch every day," reflecting his widespread popularity. Robin Roberts, a host at Good Morning America, celebrated Muir's accomplishment during a broadcast, calling out his name with enthusiasm, while fellow anchors Michael Strahan and George Stephanopoulos echoed their congratulations.
Muir's journey in journalism began at a young age. He wrote to CNY Central’s WTVH at just 13 years old, eventually landing an internship that would set the stage for his future in broadcasting. "They had a growth chart on the newsroom wall where each summer and school break I came in, they’d mark me up on the wall and measure how much I’d grown," Muir reminisced in a past interview. This early experience not only shaped his career but also instilled in him a deep understanding of the concerns and aspirations of the communities he serves.
Since taking over as anchor of "World News Tonight" in 2014, Muir has led the program to become the most-watched evening newscast across all broadcast and cable networks, maintaining its top position for nearly a decade. The program has consistently garnered critical acclaim, earning a News & Documentary Emmy for Outstanding Live News Program in 2023 and 2024, as well as an RTDNA Edward R. Murrow Award for TV Network Newscast.
As Muir reflects on his success and the recognition he has received, he remains grounded in his roots. "I’m no different from the intern in Syracuse who then became the rookie reporter in Syracuse," he stated. Muir's humble beginnings in Upstate New York continue to influence his work, as he strives to give a voice to the people and their stories.
TIME magazine's annual list of the 100 most influential people includes a diverse array of figures from various fields, including celebrities, innovators, leaders, and icons. This year's list features notable names alongside Muir, such as President Donald Trump, WNBA star Breanna Stewart, podcaster Joe Rogan, actor Adrien Brody, singer Ed Sheeran, and billionaire Elon Musk.
Muir's recognition as one of the most influential people in the world is not just an accolade; it reflects the trust that millions of Americans place in him to deliver the news with integrity and insight. As he continues to navigate the complexities of global reporting, his commitment to journalistic excellence remains unwavering.
With a career spanning decades, Muir has proven that he is not only a skilled journalist but also a compassionate storyteller, dedicated to shedding light on the pressing issues facing our world today.
