Robin Roberts Pays Tribute to GMA Producer and Co-Worker Thea Trachtenberg Who Died at 51
Robin Roberts found solace in her pet dog as she mourned the death of a dear co-worker on "Good Morning America" in a heartfelt post.
A beloved member of the “Good Morning America” family has passed away and Robin Roberts paid an emotional tribute to her this week.
Robin Roberts at the David Lynch Foundation's "Women of Vision Awards" in May 2017. | Photo: Getty Images
GMA producer, Thea Trachtenberg died on Sunday after battling with a heart and lung condition. Reports clarified that Thea, 51 did not die due to COVID-19. She tested negative for the virus.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Robin acknowledged Thea’s extensive contribution to GMA, having been part of the show for 20 years. The 59-year-old anchor hugged her dog and a tiny stuffed animal in a photo accompanying her heartfelt message.
“After our tribute this morn for @goodmorningamerica producer Thea Trachtenberg... @lil_man_lukas saw I was emotional and during the commercial break he brought me his fav toy to comfort me,” Robin first wrote to explain the picture.
She continued by describing Thea as “extraordinary” and one of the most talented members of the show. She added,
“20 years at GMA is no small feat and as a former colleaguue appropriately said: “Thea is part of the bedrock of GMA.””
The sad news was delivered to GMA staff through a note written by senior executive producer, Michael Corn. Michael spoke fondly of Thea, saying she was usually the first pick of top ABC talents due to “her tireless pursuit of perfection.” He also described her as “razor smart and bitingly funny and filled with heart.”
Thea is the second death in the GMA family this month. Last week, George and Robin also mourned the death of the show's camera operator, Tony Greer.
Robin’s co-anchor, George Stephanopoulos likewise paid tribute to Thea on the daily show, remembering her as an “intelligent and fearless producer.” He shared an anecdote involving Thea and his interview with then-president Barack Obama that clearly depicted who the late producer was.
Before the interview, she corrected the time-conscious former president who thought the length of the interview was 30 minutes by insisting they had agreed on 45. “Thea in a nutshell,” Robin offered after George finished his story.
Thea is the second death in the GMA family this month. Last week, George and Robin also mourned the death of the show’s camera operator, Tony Greer who died from COVID-19 complications.
Tony was part of the show for six years. Robin fondly remembered him as a “bright light” who enjoyed meeting celebrities on the show and having his photos taken with them. He was survived by his longtime girlfriend who he loved to travel with.