york, the hollywood mogul's attorneys asked the judge to throw the case out because of misconduct by prosecutors. the judge said there was no basis for doing that. weinstein denies all allegations of non-consensual sex. his next court appearance is early march. a woman was arrested after an epic meltdown at the memphis airport. >> tamiko warner allegedly caused more than $2,000 in damages. she was captured on video flipping furniture, knocking over loading poles and setting off the fire extinguisher. warner was reportedly upset over a $20 baggage fee. where did she find a $20 baggage fee? i thought it was more than that. she was charged with disorderly conduct and vandalism. let's hope she's single. when we come back, a very special honor for this short-timer. ♪ thank you, next

>> oh. >> i can't wait to see what else is next. >> me, too. you're watching "world news now." "world news now."

♪ to the left, to the left. wow. it's amazing that i'm going to be unemployed. >> well, one thing we'll get to do when kendis is gone is have some fun around here. >> yeah. we have a busy, busy day. we're going to start with breaking news. we are going to start on a serious note. >> no, no, no, i am not down with that. it is national dance day. ♪ >> ladies, if you like it, put a ring on it. ♪ my lovely lady love

check it out. >> that is so bad. ♪ >> we ain't afraid of no ghosts. >> it's way too early for you to see the rest of this outfit. >> thanks for watching, everybody. >> there's nothing extinct about those costumes. proud journalist moment. what did you do? does this banana make my butt big? >> he didn't know that one was coming. >> i actually put that photo out. >> you, settle? there you go. >> i'm african mc hammer in these. >> nice romper. >> this is why i don't like hair. it tickles. it's just a beautiful man bun. >> you really rock that.

>> ladies love the man buns. >> can you see anything right now? >> i can't see anything. >> there you go. >> but it looks so good. >> you have to color outside the lines. >> in case you want to know what it smells like, just head to uranus, because the visual of it -- >> let's move on. quickly. >> does he moonlight at brists? she had a hot dog fly in her face. >> your important bits are uncovered. >> this set of important bits, but yeah. >> you don't have any green on. >> i do in some parts. literally the pants. dirty. move on to something wholesome and good with america. you don't know this but my pants actually rip off. >> i think i might have seen one

of these shows before. >> you can't not get slimed. >> there you go. >> did i do it? >> kendis. >> the best thing i've heard all day is our producer matt in my ear saying we're running out of time. >> two more. >> i have two more pancakes for you. >> you're doing the next segment. >> many of you often tell me on twitter that you'd really like to see some true male talent on this show. that was kind of an insult to myself. >> look at you. >> i don't know how you guys got one of my selfies. >> i've gone behind the scenes

to one of the shoots before, and whoa. how big is that glove? >> this is harder than it looks. this is much harder than it looks. >> what happened there? nobody said about taking the socks off. isn't that part of it? oh, not even close! >> kendis, are you enjoying that strawberry shortcake? >> it's amazing. >> kendis is actually eating -- swallow it. the pizza. eat the pizza! did you just secretly eat a cookie. >> i really did eat. >> i looked at the menu and all it had were carbs. no gluten free, no kale salad. it was really scary.

[ screaming ] >> they heard you crying in the elevator, buddy. >> somebody was serenading me. >> somebody was serenading me. ♪ i open my eyes if you asked me do i love you this much. >> no, we don't. we don't. ♪ i do. >> nailed it. wow. >> there is no question that kendis has made us proud, but his influence actually transcends borders. a native of belize, he has always proudly displayed his heritage, and this morning you are getting an official thank you from your country. >> greetings, kendis. let me congratulate you for all the outstanding work you've done in your field of broadcast journalism.

what you've attained in your career so far is exceptional. as i welcome you as a well respected journalist, i also commend the fact you wear your belize heritage so proudly. i thank you for shining that beacon of light on your beautiful country and for making belizians proud of you on a nightly basis. >> we have this full message on facebook. kendis, there is more. the country of belize has presented you with this plaque to say you're officially the rihanna of belize. >> wow, that is awesome. >> any think that you are really important. >> he said esteemed abc presence. you've never seen the show, have you. >> you'll be an ambassador soon. >> that is cool.

can i get an island? the answer to the question, where am i going? that's the biggest question i've gotten. >> unemployment line. >> that's next. coming up. >> stay with us. that's next. >> stay with us.

know what turns me on? my better half, hors d oeuvres and bubbly. and when i really want to take it up a notch we use k-y yours & mine. tingling for me, warming for him. wow! this holiday season get what you want

what a morning it has been, but this is it. it is your turn. i'm leaving you all alone right here. good luck. >> all alone. it's just me? >> it's just you. good luck. good luck. i'm going to head out. thank you, guys. thank you. >> so i guess that's it. after three years, three months, 14 days, here i am leaving my last "world news now" show. what a run. i've decided to return to my favorite place, belize. time for me to mix it up with the people of belize. ♪

>> i know, i know, it's me. i'm going to come say hi. yes! my people. this is awesome. obviously my people aren't quite ready for my grand return. i decided to explore belize city a little bit more. >> what's up? >> belize! where is the love? >> there was something else i had to do, so i flew south to the village of placencia where i planned to spend my post early morning news days and

permanently ditch my suit and those uncomfortably unbuttoned shirts. finally. ♪ the sound of silence >> anybody going to save me? a little mouth to mouth? anything? ♪ narrow streets of cobblestone ♪ beneath the halo of a street lamp ♪ >> what took you so long? ♪ ♪ you're making my dreams come true ♪ >> keep up. ♪ well, well, you you're making my dreams come true ♪ >> you were always my favorite ryan.

it's just you and me against the world now.

good morning, i'm janai norman. >> i'm kendis gibson. here are some of the top headlines we're following. there is concern from democrats and republicans alike over the resignation of secretary james mattis. he is quitting after clashing with trump. president trump wants money for his border wall but it is expected to die today. in mexico, they await cases to be heard by immigration judges. next cmexico is on board with t. harvey weinstein is back in court in early march.

his attorney argued the case should be thrown out because of misconduct by prosecutors. in case you just joined us, kendis has just been honored by his native belize for his excellence in broadcasting. >> excellence. >> uh-huh. those are some of the top stories on friday, december 21st. >> it must be a slow news day. >> announcer: from abc news, this is "world news now." >> does this give me a key of the country of belize? what do i get? >> kendis is a big deal. he is officially, as he said before, the rihanna of belize. next he's coming out with a lingerie line. >> rihanna of a country. >> he's a really big deal. we'll continue celebrating him, but we begin this half hour just hours away from a possible government shutdown as president

trump digs in on his demand for money for a border wall. >> overnight republicans passed a short-term spending bill that designates $5.7 billion to build the wall, but the senate is poised to reject it. just days ago the president signaled he was willing to drop his demand for a wall funding. he abruptly changed his mind amid an uproar from conservatives. >> the president is supposed to leave tomorrow to spend the holidays at mar-a-lago, but officials say he will not go if there is a government shutdown. senators who have left town are told they may have to return to washington for a vote. >> it's a shame things aren't as exciting these days. you have the departure of jim mattis triggereded by trump pulling the military from syria. mattis wrote in his two-page resignation letter that the president deserves a defense secretary whose views are more aligned with his.

fascinating letter. he specifically named adversaries such as russia and china. here's abc's terry moran. >> this is consistent with the president's running for foreign policy. he ran as a different kind of republican, not a bush republican. no more wars. he said he has been on this for years. he's now talking about withdrawal troops from afghanistan, and jim mattis, who had devoted his view on a different power of the world, this was too much. they had parted ways clearly on policy and even personally over the past few months when mattis was appointed secretary of defense, president trump proudly presented him as the general maddog, a nickname general mattis did not like. but they have parted company. this is consistent with the campaign that donald trump won and the political views that he has, that the united states has been fighting too many wars

overseas. this is all part of his america first policy that apparently general mattis has decided he can contribute to as much as he can at the department of defense. >> and it's a resignation that has republicans and democrats expressing concern. our thanks to terry there. before the mattis resignation, the president signed a massive farm bill with a bit of flare. it provides $867 billion. it also tightens requirements food stamps for recipients. he filmed a video of himself with "green acres." actress megan mulally is also in the video. later she tweeted, if you guys need me, i'll be in a hole in the ground. >> you have to laugh. it's funny. or you cry. the east coast is facing a major storm as millions begin their travels for the holiday season. it is expected to dump heavy rain and cause some flooding in

the northeast. a live look outside times square. flood watches have been issued for the entire east coast. >> that storm already battered parts of florida. it spawned at least two twisters and major flooding. meteorologist paul williams is here in the flesh. paul, good morning. >> of course i had to be here when the monarch has his last day. >> bow down. >> the monarch of belize. since you're the rihanna, kendis ought to have our money, right? pay us what you owe us, right? back to the forecast, right? first and foremost, we have widespread showers continuing to push across the entire east coast. this is due to a significant low pressure system that's getting stronger and stronger as we go along. as we slip to what's happening in our forecasting maps, we continue to look at a significant amount of flooding in the east coast and that will continue to be the problem. you combine that low pressure

system with ongoing moisture coming off the atlantic along with complementary moisture coming off the gulf and you have a low pressure system that's really just ornery. that's right, ornery, mean. i'll get to you in a minute, kendis. we're looking at that low pressure system continuing across the ohio region on saturday. since you want to jump into the forecast, kendis, i have a special forecast just for you on how we feel about you leaving us. >> i'm listening. >> first and foremost, over in bald head island, we're looking at heavy rain there. and since you'll be leaving and probably not sitting on your laurels and not working as hard, we're expecting a chunky kendis. we couldn't find beer belly kendis. and not only that, since you're going to be leaving us, you traitor to the night crew, we're looking at benedict arnold.

>> at least it's not arnold from "different strokes." i'm okay with that. 31 degrees. >> we are very proud of you. >> this midsection is fine. it is fine. >> and chunky. >> and much taller than you, kevin hart. >> you're cat williams and you're calling me kevin hart? let me tell you something, bobo, you don't want to go with me on that. >> grow up, emmanuel lewis. >> at least i have curly hair. >> whatever happened to webster? now we know. >> whatever happened to, let's see, rudy? >> now we know. >> she's from belize. >> you two, wow. >> it's been real. coming up, much more as we say goodbye to our dear kendis. you are watching "world news

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katy perry, "we can't sleep." which is the model here on "world news now". >> he forgot the name of the show. >> you're finally going to get some sleep. >> i'm not dying or anything. >> sleep in peace, my dear friend. more celebration a little bit later, but first, scary moments in texas as a worker dangles from a crane. this was the scene in el paso. two workers were trapped in the crane's basket. one was rescued quickly. >> the other one was stuck nearly 400 feet in the air. he was eventually brought down safely. he was replacing lights on a communication tower when their crane stopped working. most american men and women are heavier.

men weigh 175 pounds on average, women weigh 170 pounds on average. the cdc also found that most men and women are getting shorter. >> no, it's just men who are getting shorter. >> yesterday we had the report that men were getting shorter and men were getting fatter as well and didn't realize it was equal. >> it's not. it's not. >> time's up, janai. >> you said that fierce. time's up, janai. anyway, we're getting a look at incredible images of a really big block of ice on mars. >> pictures from mars express. ice is in a 50-mile crater. its center is a mile thick. a teen with cerebral palsy got to follow in his dad's footsteps for a day. they tricked out his wheelchair.

it looks like an nypd cruiser. >> it even has some flashing lights. >> i'll still run from that one. coming up, another honor for our dear kendis. >> you can't wait for it to be over. >> uh-huh. uh-huh. countdown is on. countdown is on. is on.

♪ ♪ so one thing we'll actually miss about kendis, actually miss, is how he charmed his way into places that some of us could only dream of going. >> they're called boondoggles.

>> what's up, abc. welcome to my crib. look at that view. >> kendis gibson, baby. kg. it's kg coming at you all night, your favorite rapper. let's go. >> you guys, let's get to work, all right? >> this is fantastic. views are great, i love it. i can just kind of sit here, ring my bell and the food will come. or my future wife. ♪

♪ the love boat promises something for everyone ♪ set a course for -- >> this isn't the love boat, this is the queen mary ii. >> a higher standard, isn't it? >> absolutely. >> i get to go somewhere on the ship no one gets to go. i think you know what's coming. i'm king of the world! yep. probably the last time i'll be allowed on board. >> with diamonds on my neck and my brand new rolls royce, you got to admit, i look the part for this miami shoot. thanks, valet. >> are you kidding? you bring a knife to a gunfight? >> this place is great. i'll take it. how much is it? >> $32.5 million. come on, $32.5 million, that's cheap.

get the checkbook out, come on. >> you're very tense. >> that's because i carry the entire show. it's not easy. >> you're the best "world news now" anchor since t.j. holmes. >> wow. pretty impressive. what time is "world news now" on? >> the glak black guy on this show is funny. >> i got slimed. i guess i'll use this costume to impress the locals. [ screaming ] >> it's me, it's me. it's okay. i'm a lifeguard. ♪ la la la la la la la la la la ♪ ahhhhh. >> even if i wasn't this short, i would be okay for 19 hours.

i'm tired of being cooped up. where are we? are we there yet? we're not even off the ground yet? it's been like 19 minutes. ♪ i've got too much time on my hands, and it's ticking away, ticking away from me ♪ >> kendis, let me take you to first class. >> i'm moving to first class? >> yes, you are. >> i'm moving to first class. that moves really slow. >> i get a sneak peek of what it's like to climb these stairs and enter into first class heaven. is that a $2,000 bottle? ♪ the dream cards roll around

and it's another one to pound. >> does this work? >> 2002 vintage dom perignon. i guess i'll lower myself and do that. how long does it take us to get to london? why are we circling back to the airport? >> i'm sorry, sir. your card got declined. >> 14 minutes later, we're back on the ground. >> last time i put a flight on my debit card. thanks. ♪ ♪ >> fresher than you. thanks to chris campbell, matt laird who did that, jeannine who did the other montage.

>> they have all been fantastic. >> kendis came from some humble beginnings. he started in oswego and he's never forgotten his roots. he's been working tirelessly for students. and this morning the students and president had a special message just for kendis. >> you created your own television show, sunrise, as a student here. you continued to serve as a wonderful role model for all of our students. congratulations, kendis! >> oh, my gosh, did you see the picture with the hair? bring it back. bring it back. >> no, that is not cool. >> oh, my gosh, he had hair. >> it was like full play days. >> we'll share that full message

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know what turns me on? my better half, hors d oeuvres and bubbly. and when i really want to take it up a notch we use k-y yours & mine. tingling for me, warming for him. wow! this holiday season get what you want take prilosec otc and take control of heartburn. so you don't have to stash antacids here.... here... or here. kick your antacid habit with prilosec otc. one pill a day, 24 hours, zero heartburn.

♪ closing time, open all the doors ♪ >> the wall of fame. >> we're starting with this. look at everybody. juju anderson. all these people. >> allison, david, david's hair. >> this amazing group of people. >> i'm dizzy. paula ferris. my idol rob nelson. t.j. >> and now the man of the hour, kendis gibson! [ applause ] >> thank you, guys. you know, i'm not going to do a sappy speech.

as my brother just told my mother yesterday, my tear ducts got ripped out at childbirth, so i'm not that kind of person. that isn't to say that this isn't bittersweet. this week has been a great reminder of why i've loved this show. i've seen so many of your messages about how this show and my antics has helped you get through insomnia, shift work, baby feedings. one woman said i helped her hot flashes during menopause. it's honestly been great being here for all of you. this show has gifted me with the kindest, funniest, most creative people in tv. i'm fortunate to have the most amazing co-anchors who i love, and immediately hit it off with

soul sister number 1, janai norman, and the best crew in all of tv and the best viewers. i'll miss you guys and i'll miss all of you. >> we'll miss you. it's like a heart attack. >> is this the part where you go to your mama's house? >> i'm as sad as you guys are. i'm as sad as you guys are. >> queue the music. it's a party, it's a party. >> you don't look all that sad. ♪ celebrate good times come on >> ready? bye, kendis! whoo! >> whoa. this is my face on a cake? >> yeah! >> oh, i get to eat! >> eat the cake! eat the cake! >> eat the cake! eat the cake! >> annie may. annie may. ♪

annie may!

. this morning on "world news now," the government is less than 24 hours from a possible shutdown. >> nearly a million workers face furlough as the president demands money for his border wall. a key vote just hours away. bombshell resignation of jim mattis in the wake of president trump pulling u.s. troops out of syria. what mattis said about the president in his resignation letter and the shockwaves it is sending across washington right now. the holiday travel rush is on with millions hitting the roads and airports. we have paul williams right here live to tell us -- >> wait, what? >> -- where the storm is headed. black friday, y'all. ♪ it's not unusual >> the day is here.

"world news now" loses one of its longest serving anchors. time for kendis to get a real job. no more this. or this. >> does this make my butt big? >> and finally kendis learns how his co-workers truly feel about him. it is friday, december 21. >> from abc news, this is "world news now." >> it's a party, it's a party. >> it's a party, yes. >> kendis' last day. >> a reason to celebrate. >> yay! >> whoa. even paul williams in the flesh. >> look at all this. >> good to see you. >> good to see you. >> it really is 106 and park. >> let me tell you something, i'm actually going to work this

time. i'm not here just because you're special. >> there is a lot of work for paul williams for once. making an honest man out of himself. i'm not even gone yet and he's measuring the drapes in my office. >> he brought the chocolate chips and hot chocolate. >> he did. we'll get over to him in a second, but it is too bad that this wasn't a busy news day at all. we'll start with the nation on the brink of a government shutdown. president trump rejecting a senate spending deal over his demand for a border wall. >> last night house republicans pushed through an alternative bill, but it is facing almost certain defeat in the senate later today. at the start of the week, the president appeared willing to bend, but he shifted his stance among backlash from conservatives. kenneth moton has the details.

>> reporter: the house republicans passing a short term spending bill. >> the president is doing everything that he can to shut the government down. >> reporter: a dramatic about-face for trump. >> we need the wall. the democrats know it, everybody knows it. >> reporter: it appeared that the president was ready to keep the government running through february 8 without money for his wall. but then a conservative revolt. >> this turnaround that looks like he just caved. >> not funding the wall will go down as one of the worst things. >> mr. president, we'll back you up if you veto this bill. >> reporter: and trump in a last minute move summoned top gop leaders to the white house. >> the president informed us that he will not sign the bill that came over from the senate last evening because of his legitimate concerns for border security. >> reporter: on capitol hill thursday night, the president's party scrambled to find a fix. but democrats are not backing down. >> president trump is plungi

the country into chaos, throwing a temper tantrum and creating the trump shutdown of the government. >> reporter: with the changes made to the spending bill by the house, the ball is now back in the senate's court friday ahead of the fast approaching deadline. kenneth moton, abc news, washington. and now to the stunning resignation of jim mattis stepping down after clashing with president trump over the withdrawal of u.s. troops from syria. the decision on syria was the last straw for the four star marine general after two years of deep disagreements. in his resignation letter, mattis says the president has a right to have a defense secretary whose views are better aligned with his and he emphasized the importance of standing up for u.s. allies. mattis is viewed as a moderating force on the president and his impending departure sparked immediate concern. >> this great country can withstand just about anything, but it shouldn't have to. it shouldn't have to.

so, yes, i'm shaken by the resignation of general mattis, what it means to our country, the message it sends to our troops or the indication of what his view is of the commander in chief. >> the republican side, mitch mcconnell said that he was distressed that mattis was resigning over sharp differences with the president and he urged the president to select a replacement who like mattis has a clear understanding of america's friends and foes. >> so all of this sending stocks nose diving. asian markets losing ground and the dow losing 464 points. for december, the dow is down more than 10%. it is on track for its worst month in nearly a decade. a record number of americans are hitting the roads just as a massive storm targets the east coast. marci gonzalez has more. >> reporter: across the country, more than 112 million people

packing up cars, piling into train stations and airports for what is normally one of the least festive holiday traditions. getting to and from those christmas celebrations. >> we're expecting the busiest days on the roadways will be heading into the long holiday weekend and also the days right after christmas. >> reporter: aaa tells us more americans will travel by car this holiday season than ever before. and the number of people flying this year will be at the highest level in 15 years. >> we travel here every year, so we kind of expect it. so we left a little extra early. >> reporter: the tsa says they have added extra officers to help keep the security lines moving and airlines say they don't expect storms hitting the east coast to have a major impact. aaa reports one in three americans are traveling this holiday season and in some cities, this is one of the busiest travel days. >> how have the lines been? >> long.

very long. >> reporter: lines and traffic in some places as synonymous with this season as candy canes and carollers. >> the snow, can't deal with snow. >> reporter: but if you are driving, some advice from experts. leave as early as possible or later in the evening especially today when the roads will be especially busy because of the combination of holiday travel and commuter traffic. back to you. and kendis, happy last show. we'll miss you. >> we'll miss you too. thank you. marci was one of the many who sat here. >> i'm sure she felt so lucky. >> sorry, marci. i'll miss you too. rain and snow are likely to create headaches for holiday travelers. >> the storm is delivering a messy mix of rain, snow, damaging winds and flooding.

take a look at times square. it is wet. >> it is busy. >> yeah, there are some people out there. more lights than people, but -- paul williams is joining us with the forecast. paul! >> paul! your cheering section. >> thank you, thank you very much. >> they are actually just waiting for you to do the weather. >> yeah, really. because later on we'll have a really fun show. but now, we have to talk about some serious stuff. in fact in general we're still looking at a tremendous amount of rain that is pushing its way along the entire i-95 corridor. the problem here is that -- where, there? would you stop moving the camera on me, kendis? i tried to come in and do this guy a favor and he's moving cameras. >> i need to help you do your job. atlanta is a mess. you do your body this way, angle it towards here, be like yes,

this is a low front over here, it is making its way up to the northeast. >> excuse me. limp your behind right over there. >> paul, i need a job. i was auditioning. >> before i was so rudely interrupted, back to the forecast. we're looking at a tremendous amount of rain making its impact throughout a good portion of the i-95 corridor. we have a warming trend combining with the tremendous amount of traveling. as far as the forecasting is concerned, overall we're still looking at widespread flash flooding and flood concerns throughout the entire eastern seaboard and not only that, we're also going to be concerned about continuous wind, combination of the colder air that will sweep in behind the low pressure system that will begin to affect the folks throughout portions of the ohio

valley region and then continue to eat its way toward the northeast. the problem here, it will continue to cause a problem because there is more coming this weekend. we'll talk about that a little bit later. back to you. >> our thanks to paul williams. we'll see you later. coming up, more news. plus what the staff is saying about kendis gibson on his very last day here on the anchor desk. this broadcasting legend is finding out what his co-workers really think of him. much more ahead on "world news now." >> i'm scared. >> you should be. >> i got money. >> i'm scared. >> you should be. >> i got money. e got money. i'll help you.

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welcome back. the military is now part of the fight against the drones in london's airport. >> gatwick was forced to close down. flights are on a limited basis this morning. they are on the hunt for the drone's operator. we're getting a first listen to 911 calls from a real life and frightening version of "home alone" that played out in alabama. >> absolutely terrifying. 10-year-old eric and his 9-year-old sister were in their house in torrent when an armed robber broke in.

eric snuck a cellphone in and called police. >> the police are coming in the back door. you're eventually going to hear someone yell police, okay? >> he's right near my room. >> this week the police awarded the kids for their bravery. officers brought them early christmas presents. coming up, it's been quite a ride. but as they say, all good things must come to an end. >> even mediocre things. >> all good things end with a roast. >> oh, boy. >> that's next on "world news now." with a roast. >> oh, boy. >> that's next on "world news now."

this is the "world news now" roast of kendis gibson. with your roast master, will ganss. we're raising the temperature. he can run. he can hide. but nothing can stop the overnight staff from roasting

and toasting our favorite current male overnight anchor. it's time to get the aloe ready as we serve up some sick burns. >> welcome, everyone. can you believe it? after three years, kendis is finally leaving "world news now." when people here first heard that kendis was coming, there was a lot of excitement. yes, from washington, d.c., a very serious newsman. how exactly did you convince the execs to give you this job? all you do is run around, sometimes in high heels. and work on your lifestyles pieces where you jet off to exclusive locations and somehow convince them that you should be there. but i get how you landed this job. you may not be the best anchor, but you are the best b.s.er. there were a lot -- a lot -- of

people who wanted in on this roast, but we had to narrow it down. first up, maggie rulli. >> often when i'm with kendis, i come across as bubbly and some might say excessively enthusiastic to the fault of potentially being annoying. but this is actually my real personality and i always just felt like when i was with kendis, i kind of had to bring it, like he needed me to help him so much. but kendis, i do have to say, begrudgingly, you're awesome. bye, guys. it's been cool. >> now in washington, abc's kenneth moton. >> you're like my brother, a much much older brother. people say we look alike, but i don't know what they're talking about. wait, my agent is calling. yeah, he's finally leaving. what do i have to do to get this "world news now" job?

what do you think? do i look like him? >> now let's hear from someone behind the scenes, producer chris campbell. >> thank you, will. i'm not usually in front of the camera so i apologize for my news read. i got my tips from kendis, so you can imagine. as some of you may know, i'm kendis' producer on some of his lifestyle pieces. everyone is always asking me, what's it like to travel with kendis? for starters, we always get stopped at the airport. no, it's not for autographs, it's because kendis asks every tsa agent for a cavity search. they always say, sir, it's only for suspects. and i tell them, believe me, no one is more suspect than kendis gibson. look at me doing all the talking while you just sit there being quiet. now you know what it feels like to be one of your co-anchors.

>> thank you, chris. and finally, the person who put up with kendis for most of his time at "world news now," diane macedo. >> i told you i don't have time to write a sappy speech about kendis. >> diane, it's a roast. >> oh, it's a roast? what can we say about kendis gibson. writer, reporter, singer, dancer. is there anything this man can do? people might say nobody will even notice that he left, but that's not true. the makers of ambien will notice big time. kendis and i are also the longest-running anchor duo in "world news now" history. we're kind of like the beyonce and jay-z of early morning news. he's enjoyed some of the world's best hotels, biggest homes, he's flown in the highest class

accommodations, but on the show the only thing he's tasted is my dust. i had a baby recently. people always ask me how hard it was carrying a baby for nine months. i say, easy, i carried kendis gibson for two and a half years. he's always there to lift you up as long as he doesn't have to do the heavy lifting. he'll just outright drop you on the floor on live television. and while our time together was very precious to me, i now have a new man in my life. you guys actually have a lot in common. like you, he is up with me all night. he prefers to drink his calories. the only difference is he's got a little more hair. seriously, though, we only roast the ones we love, and kendis, i will miss you terribly. but i know our paths will cross again no matter where you end up.

probably as my uber driver. >> burn! >> that was good. >> wow! i resemble all of those remarks. i know! i know! if you're age 50 to 85, and looking to buy life insurance on a fixed budget, remember the three p's. what are the three p's? the three p's of life insurance on a fixed budget are price, price, and price. a price you can afford, a price that can't increase, and a price that fits your budget. i'm 54. alex, what's my price? you can get coverage for $9.95 a month. i'm 65 and take medications. what's my price? also $9.95 a month. i just turned 80. what's my price? $9.95 a month for you too. if you're age 50 to 85, call now about the #1 most popular whole life insurance plan,

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who's got the time to chase around down dirt, dust and hair? so now, i use heavy duty swiffer sweeper and dusters. for hard-to-reach places, duster makes it easy to clean. it captures dust in one swipe. ha! gotcha! and (new) sweeper heavy duty cloths lock away a twice as much dirt and dust. it gets stuff deep in the grooves other tools can miss. you know what? my place is a lot cleaner now. stop cleaning. start swiffering. know what turns me on? my better half, hors d oeuvres and bubbly. and when i really want to take it up a notch we use k-y yours & mine. tingling for me, warming for him. wow! this holiday season get what you want

i'm very grateful for all the shoots i got to go on this year, although filming with kendis is always a challenge. he's super fast, he gives you one take and it always leaves you more confused than when you started. wait, those aren't my jokes, those are reviews from his exes. >> i only give you one take. wow. >> how good was that? >> the best 20 seconds of your life. >> the line -- kendis. here we are celebrating his final, final day. >> and on a friday.

>> on a friday heading into the weekend. >> you know what that means. >> it's time for the polka. barry mitchell here to join us. >> look at all the people who turned out to wish you well. this is terrific. here we go! ♪ ♪ rode a camel, made him sore that's the kendis polka eating carbs, that's a crime ♪ on his head we dumped green slime ♪ that's the kendis polka ♪ he traveled first class that's why he's out now on his way ♪ why not do your carlton dance, take a chance with the kendis polka! ♪ ♪

♪ ♪ just one look at kendis g., should make him say goodbye jay-z. i've never seen someone so overjoyed to leave ♪ bounding through the streets dressed up as baby new year's eve do the kendis polka ♪ >> please welcome our new senior anchor janai norman. >> yeah! ♪ >> the extended version. ♪

>> it's a remix. >> we're not allowed to drink on tv. >> yeah!

this morning on "world news now," the resignation bombshell sending shockwaves across the nation's capitol. the surprise resignation by secretary jim mattis. the reaction just in. a massive storm strikes just as millions of americans hit the road. rain, snow, flooding are likely to create some headaches for holiday travelers. here to track it all and the reason why the storm is hitting us right now is paul williams here, live, in living color. ♪ in living color and it's the day candace has been waiting for, a show all about him. >> you are the best "world news now" anchor since tj holmes.

>> sit back, as we say. bye, felicia. >> and see his greatest hits one more time, like this. ♪ la, la, la, la, la la, la, la, la, la. >> and when he did this. plus something kendis is not expecting. >> i'm moving to first class? >> it's friday morning, december 21st. from abc morning news, this is "world news now." man, the deejay is on it this morning for the final show. paul williams is here. >> welcome, paul! yeah! >> we have an action-packed show. >> guys, the fun we're in for. >> the truth got out of the bag

about where i'm heading when the white house and the pentagon -- >> our nation is in more trouble than we thought. >> yeah. exactly. so the defense secretary, jim mattis, is out, quitting in protest to president trump's sudden decision to withdraw american forces from syria. >> mattis made it clear in his resignation letter that his views are not aligned with the president's. he is set to step down in february. now democrats and republicans are concerned. martha raddatz has more. >> reporter: the news coming in a backlash over president trump's decision to pull out of syria, and that video where he said he was honoring american troops, including those who gave their lives. >> they're all coming back and they're coming back now. we won and that's the way we want it, and that's the way they want it.

>> reporter: some of the president's closest allies call it a disaster, rejecting his claim that isis has been defeated. >> to say they're defeated is an overstatement and is fake news. it is not true. >> reporter: and now defense secretary jim mattis handing in his resignation, making clear he has deep disagreements with the commander in chief. in a letter to the president, mattis writes, we cannot protect our interests without maintaining strong alliances and showing respect to those allies. mattis adding, we must be resolute and unambiguous in our approach to those countries whose strategic interests are increasingly in tension with ours. he specifically cites china and russia, telling trump, because you have the right to have a secretary of defense whose views are better aligned with yours on these and other subjects, i believe it is right for me to step down from my position.

president trump has hinted he and mattis aren't always on the same page. >> i think he's sort of a democrat, if you want to know the truth. but general mattis is a good guy, we get along very well. he may leave. at some point, everybody leaves. >> reporter: the president tweeting, a new secretary of defense will be named shortly. i greatly thank jim for his service. secretary mattis is a man whose life has been about service and sacrifice. he cares deeply about our troops and this country. he said he would never leave the post as long as he felt his service to the president was valued and productive. that no longer was the case. it seems clear the situation was intolerable for mattis and clear that this was in protest to trump pulling out the troops from syria. and trump is also considering pulling a substantial number of troops out of afghanistan as well. martha raddatz, abc news, washington. president trump is also under fire for his insistence on funding on a border wall as the clock ticks on a government

shutdown at midnight tonight. he okayed a short spending bill on the wall but it is not expected to pass in the senate. he caved to conservatives that warned him going back on his promise for the wall would cost him the election in 2020. the attorney general matthew whitaker is not recusing himself from the russia investigation. this occurred as he was told by a top ethics official that he should step down and step aside as an abundance of caution. that official also saying his conflict of interest is a close call. whitaker had criticized the special counsel's investigation while he was a tv commentator. a serious storm is hitting the east coast just as travelers take to the road for christmas. on the east coast, heavy rain moves in.

i'm going to miss columbus avenue and all that action. slow down, columbus avenue, you drunk. >> severe storms slammed florida. at least two tornadoes damaging homes and injuring one person. accuweather meteorologist paul williams joining us now. >> action on the east coast and other areas as well. we take a look at what's happening with widespread showers and thunderstorms on the east coast, heavy storms pushing into north and south carolina. we're talking about wide spread problems with flooding that is a problem as far south as tallahassee to new york. we have a low pressure system that will rear its ugly head with a lot of wind and a mix that will move in behind it. with all that in mind, we're looking for a very messy weekend as well. of course, then we'll be watching out for saturday. we're looking for a combination of wind, cooling that will occur

over the ohio valley region, looking at a mix happening to the north. not talking about a tape mix. just in honor of our honorary king and sacred item of belize, 78 on saturday, 79 on sunday. let's know into more detail as far as kendis is concerned. we can take a look at different types of forecasts. in fact, we're looking at an opportunity for, oh, let's say the people there giving homage to you with partly cloudy skies on saturday but then they got sad on sunday because of the leaving of your monarch. >> oh, the people of belize do care. i hope. >> somebody needs to. all your friends say they don't want you around anymore. >> that's where i was born and raised. we'll see. our thanks to paul williams there. coming up, more of today's headlines on "world news now." >> plus something kendis is not expecting.

we can only say it's big, it's quite an honor and something he probably doesn't deserve, to be quite honest. that's coming up on "world news now." deserve, to be quite honest. we'll return with more "world news now."

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hey, kendis, i just wanted to say congratulations, man. all the years you put in on the late night, and i know you're leaving. i know it's kind of bittersweet, but we're so excited. you're still part of abc family. my boy, can't wait to hang out. maybe we can hang out and have lunch and you don't have to say, i have to go to bed now because i have to wake up in a few hours. i'm happy for you, i'm a fan, and i admire what you do and how you handle yourself on camera and off. just a good person, man. i'm glad to be part of your abc family. talk to you later. >> that was so nice of him to pretend to be your friend. >> i know, right? everything i say at the end of every lunch i've had with michael, and we've had a few is, you got the check? >> good thinking, kendis. >> michael is awesome. the case against harvey weinstein is moving forward.

>> during a court hearing in new york, the hollywood mogul's attorneys asked the judge to throw the case out because of misconduct by prosecutors. the judge said there was no basis for doing that. weinstein denies all allegations of non-consensual sex. his next court appearance is early march. a woman was arrested after an epic meltdown at the memphis airport. >> tamiko warner allegedly caused more than $2,000 in damages. she was captured on video flipping furniture, knocking over loading poles and setting off the fire extinguisher. warner was reportedly upset over a $20 baggage fee. where did she find a $20 baggage fee? i thought it was more than that. she was charged with disorderly conduct and vandalism. let's hope she's single. when we come back, a very special honor for this short-timer. ♪ thank you, next >> oh. >> i can't wait to see what else

is next. >> me, too. you're watching "world news now." is next. >> me, too. you're watching "world news now." "world news now."

♪ to the left, to the left. ♪ to the left, to the left. wow. it's amazing that i'm going to be unemployed. >> well, one thing we'll get to do when kendis is gone is have some fun around here. >> yeah. we have a busy, busy day. we're going to start with breaking news. we are going to start on a serious note. >> no, no, no, i am not down with that. it is national dance day. ♪ >> ladies, if you like it, put a ring on it. ♪ my lovely lady love

check it out. >> that is so bad. ♪ >> we ain't afraid of no ghosts. >> it's way too early for you to see the rest of this outfit. >> thanks for watching, everybody. >> there's nothing extinct about those costumes. proud journalist moment. what did you do? does this banana make my butt big? >> he didn't know that one was coming. >> i actually put that photo out. >> you, settle? there you go. >> i'm african mc hammer in these. >> nice romper. >> this is why i don't like hair. it tickles. it's just a beautiful man bun. >> you really rock that.

>> ladies love the man buns. >> can you see anything right now? >> i can't see anything. >> there you go. >> but it looks so good. >> you have to color outside the lines. >> in case you want to know what it smells like, just head to uranus, because the visual of it -- >> let's move on. quickly. >> does he moonlight at brists? she had a hot dog fly in her face. >> your important bits are uncovered. >> this set of important bits, but yeah. >> you don't have any green on. >> i do in some parts. literally the pants. dirty. move on to something wholesome and good with america. you don't know this but my pants actually rip off.

>> i think i might have seen one of these shows before. >> you can't not get slimed. >> there you go. >> did i do it? >> kendis. >> the best thing i've heard all day is our producer matt in my ear saying we're running out of time. >> two more. >> i have two more pancakefor you. >> you're doing the next segment. >> many of you often tell me on twitter that you'd really like to see some true male talent on this show. that was kind of an insult to myself. >> look at you. >> i don't know how you guys got one of my selfies.

>> i've gone behind the scenes to one of the shoots before, and whoa. how big is that glove? >> this is harder than it looks. this is much harder than it looks. >> what happened there? nobody said about taking the socks off. isn't that part of it? oh, not even close! >> kendis, are you enjoying that strawberry shortcake? >> it's amazing. >> kendis is actually eating -- swallow it. the pizza. eat the pizza! did you just secretly eat a cookie. >> i really did eat. >> i looked at the menu and all it had were carbs. no gluten free, no kale salad. it was really scary.

[ screaming ] >> they heard you crying in the elevator, buddy. >> somebody was serenading me. >> somebody was serenading me. ♪ i open my eyes if you asked me do i love you this much. >> no, we don't. we don't. ♪ i do. >> nailed it. wow. >> there is no question that kendis has made us proud, but his influence actually transcends borders. a native of belize, he has always proudly displayed his heritage, and this morning you are getting an official thank you from your country. >> greetings, kendis. let me congratulate you for all the outstanding work you've done

in your field of broadcast journalism. what you've attained in your career so far is exceptional. as i welcome you as a well respected journalist, i also commend the fact you wear your belize heritage so proudly. i thank you for shining that beacon of light on your beautiful country and for making belizians proud of you on a nightly basis. >> we have this full message on facebook. kendis, there is more. the country of belize has presented you with this plaque to say you're officially the rihanna of belize. >> wow, that is awesome. >> any think that you are really important. >> he said esteemed abc presence. you've never seen the show, have you. >> you'll be an ambassador soon.

>> that is cool. can i get an island? the answer to the question, where am i going? that's the biggest question i've gotten. >> unemployment line. >> that's next. coming up. >> stay with us. that's next. >> stay with us.

know what turns me on? my better half, hors d oeuvres and bubbly. and when i really want to take it up a notch we use k-y yours & mine. tingling for me, warming for him. wow! this holiday season get what you want

what a morning it has been, but this is it. it is your turn. i'm leaving you all alone right here. good luck. >> all alone. it's just me? >> it's just you. good luck. good luck. i'm going to head out. thank you, guys. thank you. >> so i guess that's it. after three years, three months, 14 days, here i am leaving my last "world news now" show. what a run. i've decided to return to my favorite place, belize. time for me to mix it up with the people of belize. ♪

>> i know, i know, it's me. i'm going to come say hi. yes! my people. this is awesome. obviously my people aren't quite ready for my grand return. i decided to explore belize city a little bit more. >> what's up? >> belize! where is the love? >> there was something else i had to do, so i flew south to the village of placencia where i planned to spend my post early morning news days and

permanently ditch my suit and those uncomfortably unbuttoned shirts. finally. ♪ the sound of silence >> anybody going to save me? a little mouth to mouth? anything? ♪ narrow streets of cobblestone ♪ beneath the halo of a street lamp ♪ >> what took you so long? ♪ ♪ you're making my dreams come true ♪ >> keep up. ♪ well, well, you you're making my dreams come true ♪ >> you were always my favorite ryan.

it's just you and me against the world now.

(tiffany) ask yourself what your children or cigarettes. for as long as i can remember, my mother smoked. she died from lung cancer when i was 16. i could not take the chance of continuing smoking and not being here for my daughter. i know how much i needed my mom still, and i didn't realize it until i had lost her.

you can quit. for free help, call 1-800-quit-now. that's what's making news in america this morning. >> bye. making news in america this morning, chaos in the capitol. a government shutdown now just hours away. the president refusing to back down on his border wall demand. meanwhile, the bombshell resignation of defense secretary james mattis stirring anger and concern. >> everything that indicates stability is leaving this administration. and breaking overnight, a major change in afghanistan. what president trump is now planning. also this morning, holiday getaway. flooding and heavy winds hampering travel for tens of millions and a major development overnight after a drone sighting shuts down one of the busiest airports in the world. plus, the dramatic 911 call. >> i'm really scared.