Charlie Gibson buried the lead. Oh, sure, a missile attack in Yemen and a major snowstorm pushing east were more important than a retirement party, but many viewers tuned in Friday for "World News Tonight" to witness Gibson's last broadcast as ABC's chief anchor.
The broadcast dedicated about the final third of the show to goodbyes with a visibly choked-up Gibson saying that his "parents taught me it was better to understay than overstay my welcome."
His sign-off was followed by a star-studded video with well wishes from five U.S. presidents, two competitors, three Muppets, two famous chefs and one astronaut. Even the very private David Hartman, who preceded Gibson at "Good Morning America," weighed in.
Notably absent: Former "GMA" partner Diane Sawyer, who takes over the anchor role on Monday.
