Departing “Good Morning America” host Josh Elliott received fond farewells from his morning show colleagues on Monday.
“It has been a great run with you here on ‘GMA,’” co-anchor George Stephanopoulos announced. “We’re very happy you’re going to be pursuing your passion.”
Elliot’s contract negotiations with ABC News broke down over the weekend, as it was announced that Elliot would leave ABC to join NBC Sports. He was away from the show Monday on a pre-planned vacation day.
Also read: Josh Elliott Exiting ABC’s ‘Good Morning America’ for NBC Sports
“He is going back to his roots,” Stephanopoulos continued, with co-anchor Lara Spencer adding that Elliot will be doing what he does “so well.”
“We will miss you very much though,” Spencer said. “He’s our buddy and we love him very much.”
Monday’s broadcast also celebrated Amy Robach promotion to news anchor.
Also read: Lara Spencer Re-Signs Long-Term Contract With ‘Good Morning America’
Elliott’s departure leaves Stephanopoulos as the only male anchor on the morning news program. Elliott congratulated Robach on Twitter.
Congratulations to @arobach–a most deserving colleague and a dear, dear friend. @GMA will be the better for your presence, Amy. #proudpal
— Josh Elliott (@JoshElliottABC) March 31, 2014
Watch “GMA” wish Elliott well below: