Downs Explains Absence

ABC’s Hugh Downs says it would have been “hypocritical” of him to appear on “20/20” when Marv Albert was interviewed after making his reservations about the story public.

Downs, who co-hosts with Barbara Walters, took last Friday off when Walters spoke to Albert.

Appearing on CNN’s “Larry King Show,” Downs said he was certain he would say no if offered the opportunity to talk to Albert about the sex charges against him. Downs said he was certain Walters wouldn’t do the interview, either.

When she did, Downs took a vacation day.