Good Morning America anchor Robin Roberts has quietly closed a long-term contract with ABC and it’s being speculated that it’s worth between $13 million and $14 million a year.
Sources tell Page Six:
ABC reps declined to discuss the value of the deal — or even if one has been signed. However, a source close to the network insisted the pact is only in the “high-seven figures,” or just less than $10 million.
“Over a month ago, they quietly inked a new, long-term, very high seven-figure deal with Robin that will keep [her] at the company for years to come .?.?. it was a friendly negotiation,” said an insider. “Robin’s been [at ABC News] for over 20 years .?.?. and will be a leader there for a very long time to come.”
The source said that Roberts — who was on leave for six months after a bone marrow transplant — “was extremely grateful for the kindness and love shown by everyone while she was sick.
“She made it clear to her reps that she wanted them to drive a fair deal but didn’t want to create any kind of bidding war,” our source said.
The top-rated morning show has been in the unenviable position of having to also negotiate with its other hosts Josh Elliott and Lara Spencer at the same time. “They’ve been a victim of their own success,” said a source who pegged the deal as being closer to $14 million. “The question is: If Robin got that big a deal, can they open their pocketbooks for everybody? The show’s been a success as an ensemble, but now every part of that ensemble wants to get paid.”
A source close to ABC said that talks with the other anchors are under way. Previous reports said that Elliott and Spencer’s reps had also been sniffing around other networks. Meanwhile, anchor George Stephanopoulos is reported to be signed through 2014.
“GMA” recently spent a full season at No. 1 for the first time in 19 years, ahead of NBC’s “Today.” However, “Today” has been able to hack into the “GMA” lead, cutting the viewing gap in half in adult 25-to-54 demos.
If indeed true, congrats Robin! You totally deserve it!
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