Story perspectives

Samira Said sues Matt Gutman, alleging ABC retaliation

8/17/2026

Summary

Said Sues ABC

Samira Said filed a suit on Aug. 14, accusing correspondent Matt Gutman of leading a team that scored a correspondent’s appearance.
She alleges Gutman suggested she needed a date, mocking her work decision, and that employer discriminated, retaliated, and denied accommodations.
After demotion, Said was injured covering wildfires, prompting a doctor to say leave was required.
ABC terminated Said on March 5 2025, prompting her to seek punitive damages and attorneys’ fees.

Summary

Gutman Boosts Ratings

Gutman's week as a fill-in anchor on CBS Evening News drew 4.1 million viewers, the highest audience in 17 weeks.
CBS News president Tom Cibrowski praised Gutman's ability to draw viewers and said he serves as an anchor on CBS Mornings, CBS Evening News, 48 Hours and 60 Minutes.
Before joining CBS, Gutman was suspended at ABC News—once for false on-air statements after Kobe Bryant’s death and once for violating ABC’s COVID-19 safety policy.

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Said Sues ABC

Samira Said filed a suit on Aug. 14, accusing correspondent Matt Gutman of leading a team that scored a correspondent’s appearance.
She alleges Gutman suggested she needed a date, mocking her work decision, and that employer discriminated, retaliated, and denied accommodations.
After demotion, Said was injured covering wildfires, prompting a doctor to say leave was required.
ABC terminated Said on March 5 2025, prompting her to seek punitive damages and attorneys’ fees.

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