5 Surprising Facts About David Muir: ABC’s World News Anchor, Jetsetter, and Philanthropist

David Muir, the face of ABC World News, is one of the most recognizable journalists on television. Known for his compelling storytelling and calm demeanor, Muir has covered some of the world’s biggest news stories. But beyond the newsroom, there’s more to this award-winning journalist than meets the eye. From his roots in Upstate New York to his adventurous travels around the globe, here are five surprising facts about David Muir that you may not know.

1. Hometown Pride: Muir’s Upstate New York Roots

David Muir was born in Syracuse, New York, and grew up in Onondaga Hill. He attended Ithaca College, where he graduated magna cum laude, further cementing his ties to the Empire State. While he now resides in New York City, Muir’s connection to his hometown remains strong. He often returns to his lake house on Skaneateles Lake to unwind and recharge. As he told Syracuse.com in 2023, “This job takes me all over the world, and I can’t think of a better place to catch my breath.”

2. A Jetsetter with a Passion for Travel

Though his work with ABC takes him across the globe, Muir’s love for travel began long before his broadcasting career. While studying at Ithaca College, Muir had the opportunity to study abroad in Salamanca, Spain. Since then, he’s explored countless countries, including Italy, Greece, France, and Vietnam. His social media page is filled with stunning travel snaps, from iconic Parisian landmarks to breathtaking views in Italy. “Paris never disappoints,” he wrote in a post from outside the Sacré-Cœur Basilica in Paris.

3. A Strong Bond with Kelly Ripa

David Muir and Kelly Ripa have shared a friendship that spans more than 20 years. The two have been part of the ABC family for decades and often appear at charity events, birthdays, and other social gatherings. Muir has publicly expressed his admiration for Ripa, calling her an inspiration. In one post from 2016, he wrote, “15 years of making us smile in the morning. Great fun celebrating my friend @kellyripa this am.” Their camaraderie is evident in the countless moments they’ve shared together over the years.

4. Family First: Muir is a Proud Uncle

While David Muir doesn’t have children of his own, he is a proud uncle to six nieces and three nephews. Muir often shares sweet moments from his family life on social media, including fun selfies with his nieces and nephews. Despite being a high-profile public figure, Muir remains grounded in his family, and his love for them shines through in his social media posts. He has said that he loves spending time with his family and cherishes the time he gets to spend with his nieces and nephews.

5. Giving Back: Muir’s Commitment to Philanthropy

David Muir is not just an award-winning journalist; he’s also a dedicated philanthropist. Over the years, Muir has worked with several global organizations, including Unicef, Save the Children, and the World Food Programme. He also established a scholarship fund at Ithaca College for students wanting to study abroad, following in his footsteps. Muir’s charitable efforts extend beyond his work in front of the camera, and he continues to use his platform to support causes that matter.

Conclusion:

David Muir is more than just a news anchor; he’s a dedicated philanthropist, a world traveler, a family man, and a true inspiration to many. His down-to-earth nature, coupled with his professional accomplishments, makes him a beloved figure both on and off the screen. Whether he’s covering global events or enjoying time with his family, Muir’s commitment to his craft and his community remains steadfast.