David Muir Pays Tribute to Legendary Architect Frank Gehry on ABC World News Tonight

New York — ABC anchor David Muir delivered a poignant obituary segment on the December 5, 2025, edition of World News Tonight, announcing the death of renowned architect Frank Gehry at age 96. The news prompted an outpouring of condolences from viewers, many directed toward Muir himself, as fans expressed sorrow over the loss of one of the most influential figures in modern architecture.

Gehry, born Frank Owen Goldberg on February 28, 1929, in Toronto, Canada, passed away at his home in Santa Monica, California, following a brief respiratory illness. His chief of staff, Meaghan Lloyd, confirmed the death to multiple outlets, including The New York Times and Reuters. Gehry’s passing marks the end of an era for contemporary design, with tributes flooding in from world leaders, artists, and institutions worldwide.

During the broadcast, Muir opened the segment solemnly: “Tributes are pouring in tonight for one of the world’s most celebrated architects.” He highlighted Gehry’s transformative impact, showcasing iconic structures like the titanium-clad Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain (1997), which revitalized the city and coined the term “Bilbao effect” for cultural architecture’s economic boost; the sweeping Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles (2003); and the Fondation Louis Vuitton in Paris (2014). Muir reflected on Gehry’s deconstructivist style—characterized by curving, unconventional forms that defied gravity and tradition—calling him a “titan” who brought joy and humanism to buildings.

The segment featured archival footage of Gehry’s works and interviews, including a memorable quote from the architect: “There it is. It’s yours now. Make it into what you need it to be,” spoken in reference to handing over his creations to the public. Muir noted Gehry’s pioneering use of computer-aided design, which allowed complex, sculptural forms previously deemed impossible.

Social media reaction was swift and emotional. On the official ABC World News Tonight Instagram post, fans commented en masse: “I am so sorry. Incredible architect. RIP,” wrote one viewer. Another added, “Thank you for honoring him tonight—what an incredible talent and gentleman.” Others expressed appreciation for Muir’s respectful coverage, with comments like “Appreciated you taking time to remember this legend” and “Condolences to his family and the design world.”

The misplaced condolences toward Muir, 52—a mainstay at ABC since 2003 and anchor of World News Tonight since 2014—stem from viewers’ empathy during somber announcements. Known for his composed delivery and personal touch in reporting tragedies, Muir often becomes a focal point for audience grief. His reported net worth, estimated in the tens of millions from his high-profile role and contracts, was mentioned in some online discussions, but fans focused primarily on gratitude for his tribute.

Gehry’s legacy spans decades. Moving to Los Angeles as a teenager, he studied at the University of Southern California and briefly at Harvard before establishing his firm. Early works, like his remodeled Santa Monica residence using everyday materials (chain-link fencing, plywood), challenged norms in the 1970s. His breakthrough came with Bilbao, earning him the Pritzker Prize in 1989 and comparisons to Frank Lloyd Wright.

Later projects included the Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Chicago, Meta’s Menlo Park campus, and ongoing collaborations with luxury mogul Bernard Arnault. Gehry received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2016 and remained active until his death, with unfinished designs for Louis Vuitton flagships.

Tributes poured in globally. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney called his vision “unmistakable,” while Arnault hailed him as an “unparalleled gift.” Critics like Paul Goldberger noted Gehry’s desire to work “until the day he died.”

Gehry is survived by his wife Berta Isabel Aguilera, whom he married in 1975; sons Alejandro and Sami; and daughters from previous marriages. As the architecture community mourns, his buildings—joyous, defiant, and enduring—stand as testaments to a visionary who reshaped skylines and inspired generations.

Muir’s segment, viewed by millions, underscored broadcast journalism’s role in commemorating cultural icons, even as fans rallied around the messenger delivering the sad news.