Producer Denied Leave After Trauma Cover

A former ABC News field producer, Samira Said, has initiated legal action against CBS News chief correspondent Matt Gutman and ABC News. Said alleges Gutman made inappropriate sexualized comments in the workplace and that ABC later terminated her employment after denying her necessary medical accommodations. These accommodations were sought following severe psychological distress experienced after covering the Uvalde school massacre in May 2022, which involved interviewing traumatized children. Said's lawsuit details two alleged incidents involving Gutman, including discussions about a female correspondent's appearance and a remark implying Said had a personal engagement. She claims these actions demeaned her and perpetuated stereotypes. The broader complaint also includes allegations of discrimination, retaliation, and failure to accommodate her medical conditions during her tenure from May 2021 to March 2025. Following her trauma from the Uvalde coverage, a psychiatrist recommended accommodations for Said's return from medical leave. However, the then-Los Angeles bureau chief reportedly insisted on her availability without restrictions. Subsequently, Said was moved to weekend shifts and later experienced a foot injury while covering hazardous events. ABC ultimately terminated her employment in March 2025, during what was described as a routine meeting. Said is seeking damages, attorney fees, and a jury trial, though the allegations remain unadjudicated.