Tensions are reportedly rising behind the scenes at This Week with George Stephanopoulos, 

with sources claiming a power struggle is unfolding between the show’s longtime host and his co-anchor, Jonathan Karl. 

According to insiders, Karl is eyeing Stephanopoulos’ role as the lead anchor, capitalizing on the recent controversies surrounding the veteran journalist.

Karl Sees an Opportunity Amidst Stephanopoulos’ Recent Challenges

Jonathan Karl, who also serves as ABC News’ chief Washington correspondent, is reportedly positioning himself as a potential successor to Stephanopoulos. 

Sources told Page Six that Karl sees the recent turmoil surrounding Stephanopoulos as an opportunity to step into a more prominent role.

Stephanopoulos, 63, has faced scrutiny in recent months, particularly after comments he made on-air led to a costly legal settlement. In March, the anchor erroneously stated that Donald Trump was “liable for rape” in the E. Jean Carroll case instead of sexual abuse. The mistake forced ABC’s parent company, Disney, to pay Trump a $16 million settlement, creating backlash within the network.

As a result, Stephanopoulos has reportedly been left feeling “humiliated” and increasingly isolated at ABC, with some insiders suggesting his influence at the network is diminishing.

One source revealed that Karl views this as his moment to take over. “He wants the show, and he sees [the Trump settlement] as an opportunity,” the insider claimed. Another added, “In Jon’s mind, he wants George gone, so it’s just him and Martha [Raddatz].”

However, other sources suggested that Karl ultimately wants to host the show alone, eliminating the need for multiple co-anchors.

Stephanopoulos’ Future at ABC Uncertain

Stephanopoulos, who has anchored This Week for more than two decades, has seen his role at ABC shift in recent years. While he continues to serve as co-anchor of Good Morning America, his appearances on This Week have reportedly decreased, with some sources noting that he now hosts the show only once a month.

In December, reports emerged that Stephanopoulos had signed a new multi-year deal with ABC, though it allegedly came with a pay cut and the possibility of a reduced role. Previously earning between $20 million and $25 million annually, the new contract is said to be worth approximately $15 million to $18 million per year.

These changes have raised questions about his long-term future at the network, particularly as his strained relationship with fellow ABC anchor David Muir continues to cause friction.

Tensions Between Stephanopoulos and Muir

Beyond his reported feud with Karl, Stephanopoulos has also been at odds with World News Tonight anchor David Muir. The two have clashed for years, and insiders say their rivalry remains a source of headaches for ABC executives.

One source noted that Stephanopoulos has been noticeably absent from politics-focused special coverage, including Election Night broadcasts, which are now primarily handled by Muir.

“There certainly has been historic tension—to put it lightly,” an insider told Page Six, adding that the network’s bosses have had to navigate the complicated dynamic between the two veteran anchors.

The Impact of the Trump Settlement

The $16 million settlement ABC paid to Trump has only added to the growing internal conflicts at the network. Multiple insiders described the situation as a major setback for Stephanopoulos, as it has made covering political stories—his primary strength—more difficult.

One source explained, “There are people who want George replaced, and it’s hard for him to do a political show right now. His greatest strength is politics, but how is he going to cover Donald Trump?”

The fallout has reportedly left many ABC staffers frustrated, as the controversy has placed additional pressure on the newsroom.

What’s Next for This Week?

As Stephanopoulos’ future at ABC remains uncertain, Jonathan Karl appears poised to take advantage of the situation. Whether he ultimately succeeds in claiming the top spot on This Week remains to be seen, but sources suggest that discussions about the show’s future are ongoing behind the scenes.

For now, Stephanopoulos continues to hold his position, but with shifting dynamics and growing tensions, the power struggle at This Week is far from over.

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