ABC's David Muir urges people to 'listen to facts and hear truth' as he makes urgent plea
ABC World News Tonight host David Muir encouraged young people wanting to pursue a career in journalism to always share the truth and let viewers decide by themselves
David Muir has urged aspiring journalists to work hard so that the general public can "listen to the facts" and "hear the truth" before making up their minds on any issue.
The TV host, 51, made a speech while accepting the 2025 Lew Klein Excellence in Media Award at Temple University in North Philadelphia. He was presented with the prestigious award by Debra OConnell, the president of News Group and Networks for the Walt Disney Company.
Action News reporter Beccah Hendrickson was also recognized as a rising star by her alma mater. During his acceptance speech, David spoke about the importance of journalism and encouraged young people wanting to pursue a similar path to always share the truth.
"I think it's so important that we all in this room remember to look behind us and make sure the door is open for the next person to come through," the ABC World News Tonight anchor and managing editor said. "There is no time more important to be a journalist in our country than right now.
"Let the viewers at home listen to the facts, hear the truth and decide for themselves, and in that way you will be a success before you even know it." Meanwhile, Beccah said, "My career is just beginning, just like a lot of the students here, and to be honored by Temple - the place that gave me my start - means so much to me."
Before receiving the award, David had visited Temple's campus to meet with journalism students, 6ABC reported, and had shared some tips with them. He said, "The true highlight of my day here was going to the Klein school and meeting the young journalists who are going to take up this extraordinary discipline."
Pictures of David's speech were shared by the university on Instagram. In one snap, David sat on stage wearing a black shirt and matching suit. Another picture showed him smiling with some of the students, while a third snap focused on David with the faculty members.
The Instagram post was captioned, "We welcomed David Muir, anchor and managing editor of ABC World News Tonight, on campus for a special student conversation at the Temple Performing Arts Center! Students had the opportunity to hear from the nation's most-watched news anchor and engage in an inspiring dialogue about journalism, storytelling and the power of the news."
The university also said they were "proud to honor" David with the Lew Klein Excellence in the Media Award. David's fans were loving the pictures, with some people admitting they were sad to have missed him.
Bernie Prazenica, a Temple University alumni and 6abc president, was recognized for his contributions to Klein College. "Bernie has poured his heart into Klein College, serving on our Board of Visitors, making opportunities for our students, both in employment as well as internships," Deborah Cai, the acting dean of the Lew Klein College of Media and Communication, said.