‘GMA’ Star Hired by ABC’s Biggest Rival

A familiar face from ABC’s Good Morning America has resurfaced on rival network NBC, making a surprising return to morning television nearly two years after walking away from her longtime role.

Dr. Jennifer Ashton, the popular physician who spent more than a decade as ABC News’ chief medical correspondent, is now appearing on NBC’s Today show, a development that has brought her back into the spotlight — this time alongside the competition.

The 57-year-old doctor appeared on Today on Wednesday, October 28, marking another appearance on the rival morning program in recent weeks. Rather than making a dramatic announcement about her television comeback, Ashton slipped comfortably into her familiar role of answering viewers’ health questions.

Host Sheinelle Jones welcomed the former ABC personality, highlighting her medical credentials and popular Dear Dr. Jen podcast before turning to questions submitted by Ashton’s social media followers.

The discussion covered everything from osteoporosis to weight-loss medications and reproductive health, giving Ashton another opportunity to demonstrate the expertise that made her a recognizable face to millions of morning television viewers.

Among the topics was the growing use of GLP-1 medications, which have transformed conversations about obesity treatment and weight management. Ashton emphasized the importance of individualized medical care, particularly when patients reach their weight-loss goals.

She also addressed concerns about the medications during pregnancy and breastfeeding, underscoring the need for patients to consult their healthcare providers when planning a pregnancy.

But the biggest television development wasn’t necessarily what Ashton said. It was where she was saying it.

For years, Ashton was closely associated with Good Morning America, making her appearances on NBC particularly noteworthy. Her latest segment was not a one-time visit, either. She has appeared on Today multiple times this month, and the network has also featured her medical advice on its website.

Still, NBC has not publicly confirmed that Ashton has accepted a permanent correspondent position, leaving questions about how frequently viewers can expect to see her on the program.

Ashton departed ABC in June 2024 after approximately 13 years with the network, choosing to pursue opportunities outside traditional television news. Her departure came as she launched Ajenda, a wellness company focused on women’s health, menopause and weight management.

The move allowed her to explore subjects she had spent years discussing on television, but with greater independence and more room for detailed conversations about issues that often receive limited attention in mainstream health coverage.

Since leaving ABC, Ashton has expanded her wellness business and launched Dear Dr. Jen, a podcast exploring medical research and health concerns, particularly those affecting women in midlife.

Her return to national morning television comes as women’s health issues, including menopause treatment and access to obesity medications, continue attracting growing public attention.

And although neither network has suggested there is any behind-the-scenes dispute surrounding her appearances, seeing a longtime GMA personality sharing her expertise with its biggest morning rival is an intriguing development in the competitive world of network television.

At the conclusion of Wednesday’s segment, Jones thanked Ashton for joining the show. The physician responded with a cheerful promise: “I’m always on call for you!”

For viewers who spent years watching Ashton on ABC, that remark may offer a clue about what comes next. Whether she eventually secures a permanent NBC role remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: The former GMA favorite is back on morning television, and this time, she’s appearing on the other side of the network divide.