World News Tonight with David Muir continues to capture the attention of its audience even when the host is not present. On Saturday, April 18, ABC correspondent Whit Johnson, 43, stepped in for David, 52, delivering the top news of the day. In one of his segments, Whit discussed the “dangerous and severe storm [and] dozens of possible tornadoes reported across the Midwest.” He shared footage showing the property damage caused by the storms.
The official World News Tonight Instagram page posted a snippet of Whit reporting on the disastrous weather during the Saturday night episode. This post received a significant response from their 1.9 million followers. Whit, who has previously filled in for David, has a history of delivering harrowing breaking news.
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The caption of the post read: “At least 35 tornadoes have been reported in just one week from California to Vermont as severe weather continues to tear through the Heartland. @thatmola reports from hard-hit Lena, Illinois, and @danibeckstrom has the forecast.”
In reaction to the news update, one commenter wrote, “This is incredibly concerning news. Thank you for the important updates.”
Another comment stated, “Oh Lord protect are homeless grant them shelter. Protect all from the storm’s path. We ask in the name of Jesus Christ Our Lord amen.”
Whit often has to deliver difficult news when he fills in for David. During a broadcast that Whit hosted for David in February, he revealed that Grady Demond Wilson had died on the morning of January 30. According to his son, Demond Wilson Jr., Grady died due to cancer-related complications.
“Tonight, we’re remembering Demond Wilson. The actor was best known for playing alongside Redd Foxx in the 1970s sitcom Sanford and Son,” Whit reported on-air at the time.
Whit added, “In addition to acting, he was also an ordained minister. Wilson died yesterday at his home in California. Demond Wilson was 79 years old.”
Following the February episode, a clip of Whit’s segment on Grady was shared on ABC World News Tonight’s official Instagram page with the caption, “Actor Demond Wilson, who was best known for playing alongside Redd Foxx in the 1970’s sitcom, ‘Sanford and Son,’ has died. He was 79-years-old. @whitjohnsontv reports.”
Viewers rushed to the comments to express their condolences. One person wrote, “Rest In Peace, Mr. Wilson. Sometimes I still think about the show and smile,” while another added, “I loved him. RIP… Sorry to your family and friends.”
