People

By Guy D. Garcia

For better or worse, his warm, folksy presence helped soften the newsy face of post-dawn television, but in recent months the corridors at ABC's Good Morning America were rife with rumors that David Hartman was quitting or being fired because of deflated ratings and his inflated salary. Last week the network ended the suspense by announcing that Hartman will be developing special programs dealing with "important issues" and will be gradually phased out of G.M.A. "It's a turning point for me, personally and professionally," said Hartman. "Changing the focus of my work to prime time will allow me to be with my wife and children on a more normal basis. After eleven years, it's time to move on." Yes, but on to exactly what? Asked if he was considering running for public office, the former actor told the New York Post, "I wouldn't rule it out. If it happened, I'd have to modify my ABC contract." Understandably. Every candidate wants to do a guest shot on NBC's Today show.