In a heartfelt and unexpected moment, Good Morning America left viewers stunned by announcing the retirement of a longtime crew member who has been part of the show for nearly four decades.

Good Morning America on X: "Goodbye, Gary! As we bid farewell to our iconic Times Square studio, we're also honoring our beloved head stagehand and prop master of 37 years, Gary Minor,

During a live broadcast on Friday, June 13, the GMA team bid farewell to Gary Minor, the show’s head stagehand and prop master, who’s been working behind the scenes for 37 years.

Though he was rarely in front of the camera, Gary was a central figure in the GMA family. Michael Strahan praised him warmly, saying, “Gary might work backstage, but he’s a crucial part of what makes this show run.” Strahan, visibly emotional, added, “This is bittersweet for us, but we’re happy for you—your retirement is well deserved.”

Saying goodbye to the 'GMA' Times Square studio

To mark the occasion, the show aired a tribute video highlighting Gary’s years of service. Strahan described him as “the heart of the studio” and affectionately referred to him as “my Danny DeVito,” reflecting the deep bond they shared.

Robin Roberts, moved by the moment, said through tears, “It’s hard to imagine walking into the studio and not seeing Gary there.” George Stephanopoulos added a light-hearted touch, joking, “I’m going to miss having someone on set who’s my height. Gary is the best.”

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Meteorologist Ginger Zee also expressed her admiration, calling Gary “the most generous, funny, and loving guy,” and affectionately noting that “he’s just the right amount of rascal.”

The touching farewell brought the studio to tears and marked the end of an era for Good Morning America, with Gary’s departure leaving a lasting emotional impact on both the crew and the viewers.