We Finally Understand Why Joan Lunden Disappeared From TV

After nearly two decades with Good Morning America, reporter and anchor Joan Lunden quietly left in 1997, leaving many fans wondering what happened. In addition to her subsequent hosting jobs and occasional TV appearances, here are some of the things she's been up to. Starting in 1980 as the co-host of Good Morning America, Lunden's was the face millions turned to each morning for the soft news they needed to start their day off right. In 1997, she left the show. But why would anyone ever leave such a cushy, well-paying gig? Lunden announced her exit from the show in May 1997, claiming she wanted to move on in order to "spend mornings with [her] three daughters." When she actually departed in September 1997, Lunden discussed the many opportunities she had been offered, including a syndicated talk show, a book deal, and even a move into acting. She explained to the Los Angeles Times, "I've been offered several scripts. I'm going to take some time off to think about what I want to do next." Even though she left Good Morning America, her workplace since 1976, including her time as a correspondent, her contract with ABC didn't end until 1999, so plans were made for Lunden to file stories for 20/20 and PrimeTime Live. Watch the video to see Why Joan Lunden Disappeared From TV #JoanLunden #GMA #GoodMorningAmerica Saying goodbye | 0:16 Forced out? | 1:16 Loved and loved again | 2:10 Twins and twins | 2:57 Breast cancer | 4:00 Health advocate | 5:04 Joan's books | 5:55 Grandma Joan | 6:43 Advocate for caretaking | 7:49 Still writing | 8:52