In an exclusive interview with Page Six, Kendis Gibson, the former anchor of ABC News' "World News Now," reportedly unveiled the depths of his despair, attributing a suicide attempt to the pervasive racism, toxic workplace culture, bullying, and more within the ABC program. Though he conceded, "There was an underlying depression already present," Gibson emphasized that his mental health spiraled downwards when he assumed the overnight anchor desk role from T.J. Holmes for "World News Now."
Gibson poured his heart out to Page Six about his forthcoming memoir, titled "Five Trips: An Investigative Journey Into Mental Health" (Post Hill Press), detailing his reliance on substances to navigate a myriad of mental health struggles, including depression and suicidal thoughts. He revealed that his mental wellbeing took a nosedive upon joining the news organization.
Upon his arrival at ABC, Gibson was warmly welcomed by the network's biggest stars, including Robin Roberts, whom he described as "incredibly kind and authentic, both on and off-camera." However, a Black correspondent warned him that he was entering "Mickey's plantation." When he inquired about the metaphor, she cryptically replied, "You'll find out."
"I sensed that it alluded to covert racism, and there was some truth to the warning," Gibson elaborated. While acknowledging that the network was a stepping stone for excellence, he stated that the oppressive environment intensified during his final two years there. His repeated requests to switch from the desk were denied, ultimately exacerbating his mental health.
Amidst the grueling demands of his job and exhaustive work hours, Gibson resorted to Ambien, a sleep aid, to cope with anxiety and insomnia. Furthermore, he claimed that his appearances on "Good Morning America" dwindled from 212 to eight after he spearheaded a "Diversity Task Force" aimed at bringing in more diverse talent.
In 2018, Gibson reached his breaking point. After anchoring an overnight show, he cried himself to sleep after consuming two Ambiens and a glass of Chardonnay. Once his ex-partner left for work, Gibson attempted to leap from his kitchen window. However, the intoxicating effects of drugs and alcohol propelled his body backwards, causing him to collapse on the kitchen floor. His best friend intervened, waking him up, and he resumed his desk duties within hours.
Ultimately, Gibson declined to renew his contract, even after ABC offered him a $10,000 raise with a one-year extension. In his memoir, cited by Page Six, he declared that "sacrificing another year working such a difficult schedule wasn't worth my time and health."
Today, Gibson finds himself in a "different space" following therapy and psychedelic treatment. "This is the first time I've been somewhere where I'm not constantly job-hunting and I'm content with myself," Gibson shared. He now anchors at WPIX11 News in NYC, relishing a shift that isn't early in the morning. "I'm still cautious about pushing myself with those hours," he admitted.
TheWrap reached out to ABC News for comment, but they declined to respond. It's worth noting that some of Gibson's quotes were excerpts from his upcoming memoir, as previously mentioned, but this story has been updated to accurately reflect his interview with Page Six.
