Good Morning America Season 44 Episode 21 Mon, Jan 21, 2019
- January 21, 2019
On Mon, Jan 21, 2019, ABC's Good Morning America aired its 21st episode of season 44. The episode was a special edition as it marked Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a federal holiday observed on the third Monday of January every year in the United States. The hosts of the show- George Stephanopoulos, Michael Strahan, Robin Roberts and Ginger Zee- discussed and celebrated the life and legacy of the civil rights activist Martin Luther King Jr.
The episode started with a brief introduction to Martin Luther King Jr.'s life and accomplishments. The hosts spoke about his role in leading the Civil Rights Movement and fighting for racial equality in United States. The discussion soon moved to a live report from Washington D.C., where the Martin Luther King Jr Memorial was located. Reporter Janai Norman was on the ground, interviewing visitors at the memorial who had come to honor and pay their respects to the iconic figure.
The show then switched gears to feature a segment about Martin Luther King Jr.'s work on poverty and economic injustice in the country. The segment highlighted how economic inequality still exists in the United States and how Martin Luther King Jr. had envisioned an America where everyone had access to the same opportunities for success. The hosts discussed modern day statistics on income inequality, and how King's teachings continue to inspire movements for economic justice.
Moving along, the Good Morning America team featured a story on children and their understanding of MLK's work for equality. The segment was especially heartwarming as it featured interviews with elementary school children who had participated in a school assembly to learn about Martin Luther King Jr. and his principles. The children recited excerpts from his famous "I Have a Dream" speech and their interpretations of the message behind them were nothing short of inspiring.
The hosts then talked with Sybrina Fulton, the mother of Trayvon Martin, who had become a nationally recognized activist against gun violence and social injustice after the death of her son. She spoke about how Martin Luther King Jr.'s work and ideas continue to inspire and guide her in her activism. This segment not only paid homage to the civil rights leader, but it also highlighted how his message continues to be relevant in modern America.
Another noteworthy segment of the show was a tribute to Coretta Scott King, Martin Luther King Jr.'s wife, who was also an activist and advocate for peace and social justice. The show paid tribute to her contributions and discussed how she carried on King's message after his death.
Good Morning America also featured a segment that highlighted the Atlanta Falcons NFL team and their efforts to honor Martin Luther King Jr. during a game halftime show. The hosts spoke with the team's officials and the performers who put on the tribute to King, discussing how his message had influenced their performance and the importance of commemorating his legacy.
The episode ended with a final discussion among the hosts about what Martin Luther King Jr. meant to them and the larger implications of his work. The conversation was heartfelt and emphasized how King's activism has touched and inspired generations of Americans.
Overall, Good Morning America's special 21st episode of season 44 was a fitting tribute to Martin Luther King Jr. and his contributions to fighting for equality and civil rights in America. The hosts, guests, and segments were all thoughtful and poignant, making for a memorable viewing experience.