Is “Good Morning America” Capitalizing Off Of Robin Roberts’ Illness?

Robin Roberts

A TV critic is claiming that “Good Morning America” is using Robin Roberts’ illness as a promotional opportunity. Television expert Tom Shales insisted his criticism was “something that must be said,” in a lengthy column he wrote for a known publication. “On every edition of GMA, there are shout-outs, warm wishes and detailed reports pertaining to Roberts’ condition. She has been seen in remotes from the hospital, and the sympathetic outpourings of viewers have been heavily documented,” Shales wrote.

This week, the show aired a piece in which Roberts’ doctor performed a bone marrow transplant. The constant updates and extensive coverage of Roberts’ illness lead Shales to make a wry joke about Roberts’ benefits package. He wrote: “We all wish Robin Roberts well. And we hope she is not being charged with sick days, considering the fact her illness has practically become another character in the show’s cast.” Shales also blasted George Stephanopaolos for following the cash instead of taking a more challenging role elsewhere.

Shales also claimed the show is “as newsy these days as Here Comes Honey Boo Boo.” Shales’ comments are being dismissed by ABC executives. ABC News senior VP Jeffrey Schneider told TVNewser: ‘To be clear, we are keeping faith with our viewers, who are deeply interested in Robin’s journey. We are also mindful that Robin derives strength from the overwhelming outpouring of love. That Tom wouldn’t understand is no surprise here.”

Roberts seems to be grateful for her fans’ support. Last week, she gave them an update saying: “The start of last week went well but the daily chemo/treatment caught up to me by the weekend. My body is so weak but not my mind. YOU give me the courage to keep going.”