ABC News anchors David Muir, Deborah Roberts, and Diane Sawyer are traveling across different regions of the United States to headline "Disney Celebrates America," a 24-hour broadcast beginning July 3, 2026, commemorating the nation's 250th anniversary.
According to USA Today, the comprehensive programming schedule features multi-platform coverage across ABC, ABC News, ESPN, and National Geographic, including a special illumination of the Statue of Liberty and the annual Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest.
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Muir's Daring Climb and Emotional Reflections
For his segment, World News Tonight anchor David Muir scaled a narrow 40-foot ladder to reach the top of the Statue of Liberty's torch, which stands 300 feet over New York Harbor and has been closed to the public since 1916.
During the climb, Muir questioned the accompanying park ranger about the number of individuals permitted on the exclusive platform.
"Nobody," replied the park ranger.
Muir recalled the nerve-racking ascent in an exclusive phone interview with USA Today, noting that the physical climb itself was the most daunting part of the challenge.
"Climbing the ladder itself was more terrifying than standing up on the platform," said Muir.
When his cameraman requested to climb a second time to film alternative angles, Muir immediately refused to go back down the narrow ladder.
"You just hear the audio of me saying, 'I'm not going back down.' We're not doing this twice," said Muir.
While reviewing the footage on social media, fans widely commented on Muir's physical appearance and biceps rather than the surrounding landmarks, while others expressed fear regarding the high altitudes.
