Michael Strahan: 'GMA' Backs Up Brinks Truck For 'Life Changing' Deal

'GMA' absolutely "had to have" Michael Strahan and paid him a fortune to move him off 'Live' because that's the way the BIG boss at Disney wanted it.

Sources connected to Strahan's blockbuster deal -- going full-time at 'GMA' -- tell us Disney CEO Bob Iger himself made the call to grab Kelly Ripa's co-host because he's an "everyday man" who connects with the audience.

Truth is, ABC is doing everything it can to fend off a 'Today' show comeback in the ratings. As a result, we're told 'GMA' will be "reformatted in September" to play to Strahan's strengths. Our sources say, despite the changes, George Stephanopoulos and Robin Roberts are absolutely safe and ABC sees Michael, Robin and George as the "three musketeers."

And if you're wondering why Iger would get involved -- we're told the network is paying very, very handsomely ... as in well into 8 figures.