Robin Roberts Returns To GMA, Gets Presidential ‘Welcome Back’

Robin Roberts returned to GMA today, and the much-anticipated Good Morning America comeback for the host was not without a bit of fanfare.

Robin Roberts returns to GMA after a a half-year long absence, and one in which the television personality had weighty matters with which to cope. Roberts suffered some severe medical setbacks, and was forced to put her career on hold to devote her time to treatment.

People explains Robin Roberts’ return to GMA was met with a very warm welcome after her health scare:

“A standing ovation from her crew greeted Robin Roberts at the door of the ABC Times Square studio of Good Morning America, even before the sun rose Wednesday – exactly five months after the anchor had a bone marrow transplant to treat myelodysplastic syndrome, or MDS, a rare blood disorder … Outside, in the street, a crowd of fans had already gathered with placards, banners and even an ebullient fellow from Dallas waving what he called the world’s largest wristband, hailing his heroine. It read, ‘WELCOME BACK ROBIN.’ “

Roberts herself was clearly glad to be back in the anchor’s chair hosting Good Morning America, a fact that became clear when she opened her mouth — the host said to viewers:

“Hi, it’s Robin. I’ve been waiting 174 days to do this: Good Morning America!”

But it wasn’t just fellow hosts like George Stephanopoulous on hand as Robin Roberts returns to GMA — celebrities like Bradley Cooper and fellow ABC stars like Jimmy Kimmel taped “welcome back” messages, impressive in and of itself. But the biggest deal good wishes?

Roberts GMA comeback was also greeted by a quick shout-out from Barack and Michelle Obama, and the First Lady and our President also had a message of support for the host. Mr. President said:

“Robin, we just want you to know that the whole Obama family, we’ve been thinking about you, and praying for you, and rooting for you every step of the way … You’ve been an inspiration to all of us, and we couldn’t be happier that you’re back here, doing what you do best.”

As Robin Roberts returns to GMA, the host admits it feels surreal to be back — and adds that she has to “keep pinching myself and … realize that this is real … this is really happening.”