David Muir, the widely respected anchor of ABC’s World News Tonight, has spent his career earning praise for his professionalism, calm authority, and commitment to serious journalism. But now, he’s been given a new—and rather unexpected—title by his fans: “Daddy.” And no, he hasn’t secretly adopted a child. The nickname comes straight from viral internet culture, and Muir’s candid reaction to it has left audiences both surprised and thoroughly amused.

“Daddy” Muir? TikTok Thinks So.

The internet’s playful obsession with David Muir has surged, particularly across TikTok and Tumblr, where fans lovingly refer to him as “Daddy”—a popular slang term used to describe mature, confident, and attractive men. Think Pedro Pascal, Idris Elba, and now, David Muir. Social media is flooded with so-called “thirst edits” of the 51-year-old journalist, highlighting his intense gaze, perfectly tailored suits, and composed on-air demeanor.

In an interview with PEOPLE, Muir addressed the trend with humor and humility. “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?’” he said, laughing. “I don’t know whether that happens when you hit 50 or what, but I’ll take it as a compliment, I think.”

The Fans’ Devotion Runs Deep

The enthusiasm doesn’t stop with TikTok. Tumblr hosts an entire blog called Gimme Gimme Muir, which curates fan-made content celebrating the anchor—from “Muir Mondays” to GIFs of his most composed reactions. It’s a testament to how a figure once reserved for nightly newscasts has now become an unlikely heartthrob of the digital age.

Still, Muir remains mystified. “I don’t see my own ‘daddiness,’” he admitted, adding that surviving chaotic news days without “looking like a total nerd” already feels like an achievement. But he’s taking it in stride, concluding with a smile: “Maybe it’s lost on me, but I guess ‘Daddy’s’ better than the alternative.”

What the “Daddy” Label Really Says About Media Culture

This humorous twist in Muir’s public perception is also a reflection of how audiences now engage with public figures. In today’s social-media-fueled world, the lines between journalist, celebrity, and internet crush often blur. Fans don’t just consume the news—they connect with those who deliver it, infusing their admiration with memes, inside jokes, and affectionate nicknames.

Muir’s sudden rise to “Daddy” status follows a trend of charismatic, intellectual men gaining viral popularity through casual internet adoration. Like Pedro Pascal or Jeff Goldblum before him, Muir’s composed confidence and intelligence have struck a chord—especially among viewers who crave authority paired with charm.

Still Serious About Journalism

Despite the nickname, Muir remains laser-focused on his journalistic duties. Since taking over World News Tonight in 2014, Muir has guided the show to become the most-watched evening newscast in the country. His reports on the COVID-19 pandemic, national tragedies, and international crises have made him a trusted voice in uncertain times.

Behind the scenes, Muir is equally respected. Starting his career in local news in Syracuse and Boston, he worked his way up through ABC’s ranks—from anchoring overnight segments to interviewing world leaders and traveling the globe for major stories.

In 2023, Time magazine named him one of the 100 most influential people in the world—further solidifying his place among the titans of broadcast journalism.

Always Evolving: Muir on Personal Growth

In his PEOPLE interview, Muir reflected on what drives him: a constant pursuit of improvement. “The moment you stop learning, the moment you’re no longer curious, the moment you don’t believe you can be better than you were a night ago or a week ago, is probably a time to sort of check yourself,” he said.

This mindset explains how he’s maintained his professional edge in an ever-changing media landscape, all while navigating an unexpected surge in fan attention with remarkable humility.

So… Is He Actually a Dad?

To clear things up—no, David Muir is not a father in the literal sense (at least, not publicly). The “Daddy” label is purely a product of internet culture: part admiration, part affection, part meme. But it’s one Muir has come to accept with grace, laughter, and a bit of bewilderment.

And in an era where public figures are often scrutinized for every move, Muir’s ability to remain grounded, approachable, and quietly amused by his unexpected fandom only adds to his appeal.

What’s Next for America’s Favorite Anchor?

With World News Tonight continuing to dominate ratings, and Muir’s calm, authoritative voice still a nightly presence in millions of households, it’s clear he’s not going anywhere anytime soon.

Still, fans can’t help but speculate. Could this “Daddy” buzz open the door for new opportunities? Streaming specials? A memoir? A prime-time interview series? Whatever Muir does next, he’s proven he can walk the fine line between journalistic gravitas and unexpected internet heartthrob.

Conclusion: “Daddy” Status Earned, Not Claimed

In today’s media landscape, David Muir’s “daddy” designation is more than a viral quirk—it’s a sign of connection. His poised demeanor, integrity, and soft-spoken charisma have turned him into an unlikely online sensation, and he’s handling it exactly how you’d expect from a seasoned journalist: with a touch of class, a lot of humility, and just enough humor to make the rest of us love him even more.

So whether you tune in for the headlines or just to see America’s new favorite “dad” do what he does best, one thing’s for sure: David Muir will keep delivering—no matter what title you give him.