GMA's Lara Spencer Finds Comfort in Co-Workers After Mom's Death

The TV host is leaning on her 'GMA family' as she grieves the loss of her mother Carolyn Von Seelen.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Good Morning America host Lara Spencer is opening up about the grief she's been experiencing since the recent death of her mother, Carolyn Von Seelen. Spencer says she's been finding comfort in her 'GMA family' as she navigates this difficult time, including co-host Sam Champion. The two were 'stranded' together on a work trip in Miami, where they huddled around a heat lamp, collaborated on the show, and even took comfort in a stuffed animal, just like the viral 'Punch the monkey' sensation.

Why it matters

Lara Spencer's transparency about her grieving process sheds light on how public figures cope with personal loss, especially when they are in the public eye. Her reliance on her co-workers during this time also highlights the importance of having a strong support system when dealing with grief.

The details

In an emotional social media post, Spencer shared a carousel of photos from her time in Miami with her GMA co-workers, including an embrace with Sam Champion. She revealed that the stuffed animal she was cuddling was helping her cope, just like the viral 'Punch the monkey' sensation. Spencer said she was 'finally coming out of the fog of grief' and was grateful to her 'GMA family' for making her 'feel warm and loved' during the difficult time.

  • Lara Spencer's mother, Carolyn Von Seelen, passed away on February 13, 2026.
  • Lara Spencer shared the social media post about her time in Miami with her GMA co-workers on February 26, 2026.

The players

Lara Spencer

A host on the morning news program Good Morning America, who recently lost her mother Carolyn Von Seelen.

Sam Champion

A co-host on Good Morning America who provided support to Lara Spencer during her time of grief.

Carolyn Von Seelen

Lara Spencer's mother, who passed away on February 13, 2026 at the age of 85.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Finally coming out of the fog of grief and so grateful to my GMA family-making me feel warm and loved-even in 42 degrees temps in Florida.”

— Lara Spencer (Instagram)

“The BEST time with you always.”

— Sam Champion, Co-host, Good Morning America (Instagram)

The takeaway

Lara Spencer's openness about her grief journey after losing her mother serves as a reminder of the importance of having a strong support system, even for public figures, when dealing with personal loss. Her reliance on her 'GMA family' during this difficult time highlights the value of workplace camaraderie and the comfort that can be found in shared experiences.