Michael Strahan, a former NFL defensive end and also a former Texas Southern University football star, will permanently join the Good Morning America (GMA) team this upcoming September. After serving as a GMA contributing co-host, Strahan’s television personality skills and likeability amongst viewers have propelled him to the morning prime time show.
In a recently released statement, ABC news president, James Goldston stated, “Michael has been a stellar addition to the broadcast. Over the past two years on GMA, he’s proven to be a tireless and versatile broadcaster with an incredible ability to connect with people, from veterans to American pop culture icons and newsmakers.”
Already a daytime television host, Strahan is no stranger to mainstream television. In 2012, Michael joined Live! with Kelly and Michael, which dominated in ratings and expanded his already growing fan base. Even though the Superbowl Champion, had already maintained television experience on FOX NFL Sunday as an analyst, his work with Kelly Ripa, helped to showcase his cross over appeal.
Although many former pro-athletes move on to various successful careers, only a select few create sustainability through television. Even more, even fewer retirees transition and perform well in entertainment. Michael’s rise in the entertainment industry has possibly shown other athletes that opportunity is endless after retirement, and has even knocked down a few barriers for African-Americans.
Nonetheless, Michael Strahan has become an unexpected force in prime time television and will proceed his reign alongside the cast of Good Morning America this fall.
“I look forward to continuing to work with the incredible team at GMA. It is an exciting opportunity to be able to bring unique stories and voices to the audience,” said Strahan in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter.
It is safe to say, Michael Strahan will continue to extend the limits to what is possible.
