Former ABC News correspondent Terry Moran made a significant claim about his former employer and an important report on the COVID lab leak theory. In an interview with “The Fifth Column” podcast, Moran discussed encountering censorship at ABC, owned by Disney.
In early 2021, Moran noticed discussions online about a possible COVID lab leak. He was permitted by ABC’s “Nightline” to explore this story. In his report, Moran interviewed scientists and Trump administration officials without making definitive conclusions but presenting the possibilities.
We broke a little news that that lab had been funded by the Chinese military,Moran stated. Despite virologist Shi Zhengli’s denial, Moran felt the lab leak was plausible. He expressed that while a natural origin seemed likely, he was open to the idea of a lab leak. Moran emphasized that the virus was not a ‘Frankenvirus.’On the day the report was to air, Moran saw a heavily edited version. He reported feeling anger when he discovered the changes, made after review by standards, lawyers, and allegedly Dr. Anthony Fauci. Despite needing to work as a team player, he was furious over the incomprehensibility of the revised piece. According to Moran, it included excessive caveats, reducing the report’s clarity.
Asked if Fauci received a transcript or video of the report, Moran indicated he was told a script was sent. However, he was uncertain of this detail.
The aired segment in June 2021 featured a debate over COVID origins. It included opinions favoring both lab leak and natural origin theories. Jamie Metzl, a vocal advocate for the lab leak theory, was outnumbered by experts who supported natural origins. Additionally, ABC News’ medical team members were skeptical of the lab leak theory.
Moran, who left ABC in 2025, criticized the vilification of Fauci. He regarded Fauci as a dedicated public servant.
Recent revelations from Fauci’s diaries, highlighted by Sen. Rand Paul, exposed contradictions between Fauci’s private and public statements on COVID guidelines. Moran, Fauci, and ABC News did not respond to requests for comment. Similarly, no response came from the White House to Fox News Digital’s inquiry about the issue.
Fauci’s writings revealed his close interactions with media personalities, such as CNN’s Jake Tapper and ABC’s George Stephanopoulos. Senate Republicans recently voted to hold Fauci in contempt of Congress, citing his refusal to answer questions fully.
The lab leak theory has gained recognition from several U.S. government agencies, like the CIA and the FBI, while many scientists still endorse natural origins. The debate about COVID’s beginnings remains intense.
Joseph A. Wulfsohn is a Fox News Digital media reporter who can be contacted for tips via email or Twitter.