Whit Johnson took over the hosting duties for ABC World News Tonight on New Year’s Eve, but usual anchor David Muir still made an appearance to wish viewers a Happy New Year

David Muir had a special message to share with ABC viewers on New Year’s Eve.

Whit Johnson hosted Wednesday night’s episode of World News Tonight, with 52-year-old David making a special appearance to thank the people at home for tuning in each night. He then heaped praise on his colleagues, thanking those who work behind the scenes to make sure everything runs smoothly.

The ABC anchor began, “And finally tonight, here from atop the Disney ABC headquarters here in New York City, the Robert Iger building, I have a personal note I want to share with all of you at home. We do this every year but I think it’s so important.

“First of all, I just wanted to thank all of you at home for tuning in to the news every night, even when it’s difficult to watch. We are grateful to have you with us each and every evening.”

He continued, “I also wanted to thank the people behind the scenes here at ABC who make this broadcast possible every night. They’re my friends, they’re my family here at work and they are as caring and as committed as you could imagine.

“I am grateful for them and I am grateful for all of you at home. Happy New Year, I’m David Muir. From all of us at ABC News, thank you for watching, I’ll see you next year, goodnight.”

David delivered the broadcast in a smart black suit, with the New York skyline visible behind him. When his message ended, black-and-white pictures played on screen of all of the behind-the-scenes workers at ABC News.

A clip of the broadcast was shared on ABC’s Instagram account with the caption, “@davidmuirabc shares his New Year’s message and a personal look at the staff behind the scenes at ABC News. Happy New Year from World News Tonight!”

Viewers flocked to the comments to wish David a Happy New Year. “You make the world a better place, thank you for being the best in what you do everyday for us! Happy 2026,” one person gushed.

Another said, “Happy New Year David! You’re such an eloquent and articulate news anchor! Many Blessings to you in 2026!” as third viewer praised, “That is so nice that you acknowledged the people behind the scenes that make it all happen!”

“Happy New Year ABC you are our family favorite,” one fan admitted as someone else echoed, “Happy New Year to you David and everyone at World News Tonight. You are #1 at our home!!”

Another fan commented, “Happy New Year David! And to everyone at ABC News! God Bless!” as a seventh person added, “Happy New year To you, your family and staff at ABC. A lot of hard work goes into a New cast , including late nights, overnights and the 24 hour commitment. Thank you so much.”