“SHOCKING REVELATION: ABC’s David Muir Surprises the World by Officially Becoming a ‘Dad’—The Truth Behind His Unexpected Journey into Fatherhood Will Leave You Speechless! What Happened Behind the Scenes to Trigger This Unbelievable Change? Fans Are Stunned as Muir Opens Up About His Personal Life in a Way They Never Saw Coming. Is This the Start of a New Chapter, or Is There a Deeper, Untold Story? Get Ready for the Jaw-Dropping Details That Will Change Everything You Thought You Knew About the Popular Anchor!”

David Muir, the face of ABC’s World News Tonight and one of the most-watched news anchors in the country, has always captivated viewers with his sharp reporting and calm presence on the screen. Recently, Muir took on a new, unexpected role that left his fans both stunned and amused—he’s officially become a “dad.” But the truth behind this new title isn’t what anyone expected.

In a candid interview with PEOPLE, Muir opened up about how he’s come to be affectionately referred to as “Daddy” by his viewers, particularly across social media. Despite being one of the most respected figures in broadcast journalism, the 51-year-old anchor admitted that he’s a bit puzzled by the moniker. “People will forward TikTok videos, but only because they are laughing out loud at them and making fun of me and saying, ‘When did you become Daddy?’” Muir said, reflecting on the viral trend that has dubbed him with this nickname. “I don’t know whether that happens when you hit 50 or what, but I’ll take it as a compliment, I think.”

The Rise of ‘Daddy’ Muir: TikTok and Thirst Edits Take Over

Muir, who has built his career on delivering serious news with unparalleled professionalism, has now found himself the subject of lighthearted memes and videos from his fans. These TikTok edits, lovingly referred to as “thirst edits,” have taken over social media, with fans creating compilations of Muir’s best moments and declaring him the ultimate “daddy” figure. In fact, Muir even has a fan-dedicated blog on Tumblr, named Gimme Gimme Muir, where followers can find “all things Muir”—a place to celebrate the anchor in a way that goes beyond news coverage.

While Muir is flattered by the attention, he remains somewhat bewildered by the sudden wave of affection. “I don’t see my own ‘daddiness,’” he confessed. “The fact that I survive those events is still a surprise to me without looking like a total nerd.” Despite his mild confusion, Muir took it all in stride, adding, “So maybe it’s lost on me, but I guess ‘Daddy’s’ better than the alternative,” jokingly dismissing any other possible labels.