Sam Rubin, Entertainment Reporter Dies at 64
Today we have a heartfelt tribute to one of Los Angeles‘s most cherished figures, Sam Rubin. Este querido reporter passed away today at the age of 64 of a reported heart attack, leaving behind a legacy that touched everyone who tuned into KTLA Morning News.
Sam Rubin wasn’t just any reporter; he was a staple on the red carpets and a familiar face that brought us the hottest chismes from Hollywood. His colleagues at KTLA are heartbroken, sharing stories and tears on air this afternoon. “It was so sudden,” said Frank Buckley, a longtime morning anchor. Eric Spillman added, “It’s such a shock to report this.”
KTLA 5 shared their profound sadness on social media, saying, “Sam was a giant in the local news industry and the entertainment world, and a fixture of Los Angeles morning television for decades. His laugh, charm, and caring personality touched all who knew him.” Truly, Sam was not only a professional in his field but also a loving esposo y padre, roles he cherished deeply.
Even Henry Winkler, one of Sam’s favorite guests, expressed his sorrow, noting how Sam made everyone feel special. “He made you feel special every single time,” Winkler said from an airport phone call.
Today, KTLA also reminisced about a memorable moment from the 2020 SAG Awards red carpet where Tom Hanks himself praised Rubin, turning the spotlight on the interviewer to celebrate his contributions to KTLA and the iconic “Sky Chopper 5.”
Desde 1991, Sam Rubin graced the KTLA Morning News, winning multiple News Emmys and Golden Mike Awards, and even a lifetime achievement award from the Southern California Broadcasters Association. He was also a vital part of the Broadcast Film Critics Association and even hosted the 2013 Critics’ Choice Movie Awards.
Beyond the screen, Sam was a voice on KNX-AM in Los Angeles, and his reports reached as far as the BBC in the UK and channels in Australia. He was passionate about representing broadcasters and ran for a position on SAG-AFTRA’s L.A. board of directors in 2021.
Sam’s legacy also includes his charitable spirit, annually promoting the Bay to Bay bike ride to raise funds for multiple sclerosis research.
Hoy, we mourn the loss of a true icon in journalism and send our deepest condolences to his wife, Leslie, and their four children. Sam Rubin, your legacy will forever be part of Los Angeles’s historia. #RIP, Sam, you will be dearly missed but never forgotten.
