The cast and crew of Good Morning America, like many morning shows, often feels like a family at time. Recently, GMA came together to pay tribute to a fallen member of their team. A few of the show’s anchor also shared stories of their fallen friend.
The News Was Shared During The End Of A Recent Broadcast Of Good Morning America
During the end of the September 3 episode of Good Morning America, the show announced tragic news. One of the series’ employees had passed away at the age of 70 late last month.
Rebecca Jarvis, who serves as the Chief Business, Technology, and Economics Correspondent for ABC News, introduced the segment. This cut to a sequence of photos as the tribute played out.
As Jarvis shared, “Before we go today, we want to celebrate Francisco Saldaña, a beloved member of the GMA family.” She added, “Fran had an extraordinary career,” explaining that he started working in his home country of the Dominican Republic. Jarvis noted that Saldaña covered the Nicaraguan revolution before moving to the United States.
Francisco Saldaña Passed Away At 70 In His Home In Newark, New Jersey, In Late August
Whit Johnson shared, “He did everything from launching cable systems to teaching college before coming to ABC and becoming a treasured member of the GMA engineering team.” He continued, “We’ll remember him for his curiosity, love of travel and gardening, and his humor. He will be missed.” Gio Benitez then ended the tribute, sharing “We will miss him.”
According to an online obituary, Saldaña passed away from congestive heart failure at the age of 70. He died in his home in Newark, New Jersey on August 29, 2026. It was shared that he was survived by “his wife of 22 years Soraida Peres, two children; Charles Frank Saldaña, Lucas Francisco Saldaña, grandchildren; Anthony Saldaña, Noah Saldaña, and his niece Yelitza Alford,” as well as friends and extended family.
‘Good Morning America’ Ends Broadcast with Touching On-Air Tribute to Beloved Staffer After His Death https://t.co/KzB3adhDjX
— People (@people) September 3, 2026
Taking to the comments, many fans expressed their prayers and condolences over Saldaña’s passing. Fans, friends, and family all took time to share their love. Some comments included:
- “Such an unfortunate loss. Fran was a consummate gentleman and a wonderful co-worker friend. My deepest condolences.”
- “A truly American Citizen, an immigrant that came to make what the United States was founded by the vision of our forefathers, a land of immigrants. Well done, Francisco, although the heavens have called your name, your deeds will always live in the memory of the living.”
- “Heaven has received a hard working dedicated caring SOUL who’s ready to take on anything that comes his way! Fran RIP you ‘re forever in my heart! xo”
- “I worked for Francisco at Cablevision for over 5 years, when he was the Director of Local Programming. Best boss I ever had! Everyone called him Fran, but I called him Francisco or Boss. He cared about his team and taught me a lot. I will miss you greatly Francisco. You were a great guy. Rest peacefully, my friend. God bless you and your family.”
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John Witiw has been a writer since at least 2015. He’s covered a variety of topics, especially when it comes to film and television.