Sam Rubin, a familiar face in Los Angeles entertainment journalism and a longtime anchor for KTLA, passed away at the age of 64, as announced by fellow anchor Frank Buckley on Friday.
Rubin, known for his extensive coverage of Hollywood and celebrity interviews, was a fixture in the entertainment industry for decades. His work extended beyond the United States, with reporting assignments in countries like Australia and the UK.
According to Buckley, Rubin had been at work on Thursday but called in sick on Friday. His family later confirmed that he had passed away due to a heart attack.
Rubin’s unexpected death has deeply affected his colleagues, with KTLA morning anchor Eric Spillman expressing shock and grief. Describing Rubin as a close friend and remarkable talent, Spillman emphasized Rubin’s innate ability to engage with people from all walks of life.
Born in San Diego on February 16, 1960, Rubin began his career in the 1980s as an entertainment reporter for prominent outlets such as Group W, the National Enquirer, and Fox Entertainment News.
In 1988, Rubin transitioned to hosting hourly entertainment newsbreaks for the Movietime cable channel, showcasing his passion for the entertainment world. His big break came in 1991 when he joined KTLA, coinciding with the station’s launch of its morning news program, KTLA Morning News.
Rubin’s arrival at KTLA breathed new life into the morning show, bringing a wealth of celebrity interviews and humor. His wit and charm became synonymous with the program, earning praise from critics and audiences alike. Despite occasional controversies over his on-air remarks, Rubin’s contributions to KTLA were undeniable.
Throughout the 1990s, Rubin expanded his presence on KTLA by co-hosting new local shows and producing award-show specials. His versatility and rapport with guests made him a sought-after personality in the entertainment industry. Rubin’s affable demeanor and knack for putting celebrities at ease endeared him to Hollywood publicists and audiences alike.
However, Rubin faced a notable mishap during a live interview with actor Samuel L. Jackson in 2014, where he mistakenly referenced a commercial featuring Laurence Fishburne. Despite the incident, Rubin remained a respected figure in entertainment journalism, continuing to appear on various media outlets both domestically and internationally.
KTLA, as well as some well-known actors, paid tribute to Rubin’s legacy, highlighting his roles as a loving husband and father, in addition to his achievements in journalism. Here is a sampling:
Rubin’s unconventional yet endearing approach to entertainment reporting made him a beloved figure in the industry. His legacy as a consummate professional and charismatic broadcaster will continue to inspire future generations of journalists and entertainers alike.
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